Events

Ask the Experts: A Native Plant Q&A with Leading Experts

This Zoom Only seminar brings together local experts to answer your questions about all things native plants. Whether you're curious about creating a bird-friendly yard, supporting pollinators and wildlife, managing invasive species, improving your soil, or choosing the right native plants for your landscape, this event is your chance to learn from the pros.

Learn why understanding the importance of native habitats is key to sustaining ecosystems and how you can make a difference in your own community.

Discover how native plants can:
Attract and support birds, pollinators, and wildlife
Reduce yard maintenance and conserve water
Help restore biodiversity and healthy habitats
Improve soil health and resilience

Meet the panel:

Dr. Andrea Ludwig, director of TN Smart Yards and Biosystem Engineer & Soil Sciences Professor at the University of Tennessee

Dr. Amanda Benoit, Ecology and Evolution Teaching Professor at the University of Tennessee & Co-Founder of Appalachian Flora

Jimmy Groton, Wetland Ecologist/Environmental Scientist, Tennessee Invasives Council Speaker, and Invasives Expert

Jimmy Tucker, Past President of TN Ornithological Society, certified TN Master Naturalist, and Bird Expert - JTucker Photography

A knowledgeable tree expert

Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or just starting your journey with native plants, this interactive Q&A will inspire and empower you to make your yard a haven for nature.

To register for this event, and submit a question, click here:  https://smokymountains.wildones.org/381-2/

This event will be via Zoom.

Experience the Beauty of Tennessee’s Native Trees This Winter

Join us for a captivating winter walk at the UT Arboretum in Oak Ridge, where the native trees of Tennessee take center stage. Guided by Don Williams of Tennessee Naturescapes and Kevin Hoyt, Executive Director of the UT Arboretum and Forestry Research Station, this event promises an engaging exploration of nature’s quiet season.

Discover the art of winter tree identification as we observe the subtle features of trees just before they burst into new growth in spring. This leisurely walk covers a short distance and will last approximately 1.5 hours, offering plenty of time to soak in the surroundings and learn.

The UT Arboretum, a project of the University of Tennessee Forest Resources AgResearch and Education Center, is a hidden gem of Oak Ridge. Spanning 250 acres, this research and education facility is home to over 2,500 native and exotic woody plant specimens and welcomes more than 30,000 visitors annually.

Whether you're a seasoned naturalist or simply curious about Tennessee’s native landscapes, this is an opportunity to connect with nature in a unique and enriching way. Don’t miss it!

Register Here:  https://smokymountains.wildones.org/register-for-event/

Please be sure to dress for the weather and wear comfortable shoes and clothing. The Smoky Mountains Chapter will provide drinks and light refreshments. 

They creep, they crawl, and their lives are surrounded by mystery and lore... No, this isn’t the tagline for the next scary movie! Insects and other invertebrates are the unsung heroes that sustain life as we know it.

Join Kendra Neitzel from Tennessee Naturescapes for this fun and fascinating event, where you’ll uncover the vital roles of native bugs and learn about the challenges posed by invasive species. You’ll also have the chance to examine real bug specimens up close—sure to spark your curiosity and appreciation for the tiny creatures that make our world thrive!

About Tennessee Naturescapes: 
Tennessee Naturescapes is a small, privately-owned native plant nursery established to address the growing need for commercially available native plants. Our team is passionate about stewarding our natural heritage and educating others on creating habitats that enhance and sustain local biodiversity. Every yard counts!

About Kendra Neitzel: 

Biophilia—the love of nature—is in my blood! From an early age, I was surrounded by an incredible array of plant and animal species, from common family pets to exotic creatures like Saiga Antelope, Arabian Oryx, pandas, and even the occasional cheetah. No, I wasn’t raised in a zoo, but with both of my parents working at the San Diego Zoo, I had the unique privilege of being involved in many fascinating projects over the years.

After graduating from university, I spent a brief period teaching biology to K-12 students before dedicating several years to working with dually diagnosed adults and children. I was constantly amazed at how my clients responded to animals and science-based projects, reaffirming my belief that a love for nature is deeply rooted in all of us.

Four years ago, I moved to East Tennessee to start a new chapter in my life. Unsure of my next steps, I was fortunate to join the team at Tennessee Naturescapes. As they say, the rest is history!

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