Every grower for our Thacher Native Plant Sale understands the crucial role of native plants and natural landscapes, but one grower combines that sensibility with a commitment to cultivating a new generation of gardeners.
Timothy Marten, associate professor SUNY Cobleskill, wants the students in his Wildflower Production course to recognize all the ways that natives support our environment. And this year, for the Thacher sale, they’re also focused on the ways in which they support the life cycle of birds.
Professor Marten writes:
At SUNY Cobleskill, our Wildflower Production course isn’t just about growing plants, it’s about cultivating a future where native landscapes thrive! Students get hands-on experience propagating and producing New York and U.S. native forbs, grasses, and sedges, working alongside ecological partners and nonprofit organizations to restore biodiversity.
From backyard gardeners to ecological restoration projects, our plants find homes in places that truly make a difference. Plus, we’re rooted in sustainability—reducing plastic waste with high post-consumer recycled pots and replacing peat moss with nutrient-rich compost in our soil mixes.
This is more than a course, it’s an opportunity to grow with purpose and leave a lasting impact on the environment!
Join Wild Ones and SUNY Cobleskill at our spring native plant sale!
THACHER NATIVE PLANT SALE: MAY 17, 2025
Capital Region NY Wild Ones joins forces with Friends of Thacher State Park and the Emma Treadwell Nature Center to host a sale of native seedlings Pear Orchard Pavilion at the park. Learn more.