Learn to 'Grow Native' in your yard Jan. 19

In January, discover prairie plants for the home garden and learn how to help preserve Illinois history with University of Illinois Extension Master Gardener Mary Jo Murphy.

Murphy will present "Prairiescapes: Grow Native" at 6:30 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 19, at the University of Illinois Extension office, 535 S. Randall Road in St. Charles.

This informative class will cover advantages of prairie plants in the home landscape, fundamentals of starting a new prairie bed, and how to incorporate native plants into existing beds.

"In addition to learning about caring for these plants, participants also will explore why prairie plants have survived for 8,500 years," said Sarah Fellerer, Master Gardener and Master Naturalist Program Coordinator with University of Illinois Extension. "Mary Jo has been a Master Gardener for 30 years. She is an award-winning volunteer, and her native plant presentations are among the most-requested from our Speaker's Bureau program."

Murphy's work can be seen each year at the Kane County Master Gardener Idea Garden's prairie and rain demonstrations plots, added Fellerer.

For more information or to register, visit the "Register Online" section at web.extension.illinois.edu/dkk. The cost is $5 per person. If you need a reasonable accommodation to participate, call the Extension office at (630) 584-6166 at least two weeks prior to the program.

For more information on the University of Illinois Extension programs in your county, visit web.extension.illinois.edu/dkk. University of Illinois Extension provides educational programs and research-based information to help Illinois residents improve their quality of life, develop skills and solve problems.