Blending Native & Exotic Plants in an Ornamental Landscape
The artful blending of exotic and native plants into
resilient, expressive landscapes is a Pacific Northwest tradition. Our unique
climate, extraordinary native flora and abundance of talented gardeners provide
opportunities and inspiration for gardens that truly stand the test of time.
Using historical examples combined with current horticulture, Richie Steffen,
Executive Director of the Elisabeth C. Miller Botanical Garden, will share his
insights on sustainable gardening that welcomes global diversity in harmony
with our Western flora.
Anyone who is acquainted with Richie knows he has
horticultural exuberance! As the executive director for the Elisabeth C. Miller
Botanical Garden, he oversees the development of the Garden, its programs, and
the rare plant collections. His expertise comes from over forty years of
experience in the horticultural field, with the last 26 years spent at the
Miller Garden.
Active in the gardening community, Richie divides his free
time between several gardening organizations as well as expanding and adding
new plants to his Kingston, Wash. garden. A noted lecturer, writer and
photographer, Richie is the co-author of the Plant Lover’s Guide to Ferns with
his friend and fern mentor Sue Olsen. He also serves as a contributing editor
for Fine Gardening magazine and frequently writes for the Northwest
Horticultural Society’s GardenNotes quarterly.
All proceeds are fully tax deductible and benefit Leach Botanical Garden.