A group of local gardening enthusiasts gathered on June 7 at the University of Illinois Extension Office in Clinton County for a hands-on workshop focused on native plants and their vital role in supporting pollinators and local ecosystems.
Titled “Getting Started with Native Plants,” the event brought together 21 participants eager to learn from Master Naturalists Laurie Henderson, Dian Langenhorst, and Deanna Ratermann. Held from 10 a.m. to noon at the Extension Office on North 4th Street, the workshop offered practical education on incorporating native species into home landscapes.
Each attendee received a kit containing four native plants, funded through the Clinton County Pollinator Grant Program. The naturalists provided expert guidance on planting, care, and the long-term ecological benefits of using native flora.
Topics included:
The ecological role of native plants in supporting biodiversity
Benefits to both gardeners and pollinators
Design strategies for year-round native blooms
Tips for sourcing native plants for home use
One especially impactful moment came when Laurie Henderson shared that native plants don’t just feed butterflies—they also sustain their entire lifecycle. “Natives are for the caterpillars, as a host plant, not just for the butterflies,” she said.
Participants left with new plants in hand—and a renewed sense of purpose in supporting their local environment through thoughtful gardening choices.
For details on future workshops or resources on native planting, contact the Clinton County Extension Office at (618) 526-4551.
