What we’re about
## Licking County and Central Ohio Garden Enthusiasts: Growing Community Through Local Gardening
NEW GROUP!
We're just getting started and looking for our first members to help this community grow from the ground up!
We're a relaxed community of gardening enthusiasts in Licking County and Central Ohio who share a passion for native plants, pollinators, sustainable practices, and Ohio's natural beauty.
*What to expect:*
• Regular posts about local gardening events, plant sales, workshops, and nature programs
• Opportunities to connect with fellow gardeners in our rural community
• A platform to share gardening tips, plant suggestions, and local resources
• Occasional informal meetups at community gardens, arboretums, and nature centers
*A personal note from the organizer:*
As a recent transplant to the area, I'm starting this group to put down roots in more ways than one! Gardening has brought me joy, better health, connection with nature, and a sense of purpose - benefits I hope to share with neighbors who feel the same way.
*This group is perfect for anyone interested in:*
• Learning about Ohio native plants and supporting pollinators
• Discovering local gardening resources and events you might otherwise miss
• Connecting with neighbors who share your gardening interests
• Building a more resilient, nature-friendly community in our rural area
Whether you're an experienced gardener or just starting out, join us to stay informed about local gardening happenings and connect with like-minded enthusiasts in Licking County and beyond!
No membership fees or participation requirements - simply join, stay informed, and participate when you can.
Upcoming events (4+)
See all- MothapaloozaArc of Appalachia (main office), Bainbridge, OH
Mothapalooza
Hosted by Arc of AppalachiaFriday, July 18 - Sunday, July 20, 2025
at the Highlands Nature Sanctuary
$250 (lodging not included)
must register and pay at the Arc of Appalachua website belowSpend your nights witnessing a breathtaking number of gorgeous moth species that will be attracted to our light stations, and your days exploring the beautiful landscapes at the Highlands Nature Sanctuary and other nearby Arc preserves. Included are two brunches and one Saturday night dinner as well as evening keynote presentations at the historic Paxton Theatre in downtown Bainbridge, Ohio.
https://www.arcofappalachia.org/mothapalooza
Click here for more information on the festivalThe Event! In the biologically rich 3000-acre Highlands Nature Sanctuary and nearby Pike Lake State Park and Forest, we will have the opportunity to witness large numbers of moth species and other nocturnal insects that will be attracted to our specially-installed light stations, all while under the mentorship of expert naturalists. Evening presentations will be hosted at the Paxton Historic Theater in Bainbridge, Ohio, 5 miles east of the Sanctuary. Be prepared to stay up late into the night, so come well rested!
Optional Friday and Saturday afternoon guided hikes will expose participants to the stunning beauty of the karst country landscapes and Appalachian foothills of the larger region, with additional sit-down classes. After you register and once we get closer to the event, we will be emailing you details on these offerings, asking you for your preferences, and then confirming your assignments by email, along with all the driving directions you’ll need for the entire weekend.
Registrants will be well fed by Sanctuary staff who will be serving two brunches and one Saturday night dinner.
The primary hub for Mothapalooza will be at the Appalachian Forest Museum with evening presentations at the Paxton Theater in nearby Bainbridge, five miles east of the Museum on US-50.
- Inviting Monarchs to your yard - Prairie Tour at Dawes ArboretumRed Barn Reserve at The Dawes Arboretum, Newark , OH
Hosted by Pollinator Pathway of Licking County
MEADOWS FOR MONARCHS
Prairie Tour
Wednesday, July 23, 20256-7 p.m.
Red Barn Reserve at The Dawes Arboretum
7087 Davis Drive | Heath, OhioWant to learn about making a mini wildflower meadow or “pocket prairie” for butterflies and other pollinators?
Join restoration specialists at The Dawes Arboretum to explore prairies at various stages of establishment.
Compare how habitats look 1 year, 2 years, and many years after planting, and gain valuable insights into their development over time.
This tour offers a unique opportunity to explore the prairie ecosystems firsthand and learn prairie establishment and management best practices.
The Meadows for Monarchs Project helps landowners convert ordinary grass into extraordinary habitat for monarchs and other pollinators.
Free, no entry to Dawes main gate needed - this event is at the Red Barn area at 7087 Davis Drive. Do not go to the main gate.
July 23, 2025; 6-7 p.m.
This is the fourth and final session in the "Inviting Monarchs to Your Yard" series as part of the Meadows for Monarchs project will be happening in-person at Dawes Arboretum's Red Barn Reserve on Wednesday, July 23rd at 6pm!
Sign up here: https://53050.blackbaudhosting.com/53050/Prairie-Site-Visit-Inviting-Monarchs-to-Your-Yard
Join our Science & Conservation team at Dawes as we visit Monarch habitat in action! Learn about the different stages of prairie plantings and best management practices from our experienced staff. Get to see first-hand how your prairie will progress through the years by touring our own restored prairie areas. You do not have to have attended the virtual information sessions to attend this program, but it is encouraged! Please reach out to learning@dawesarb.org to receive links to the information session recordings. Additionally, attached to this email is a document outlining the information that was shared during the virtual sessions.
Native Plants of Ohio. Meadowscaping. Wildflowers.
You don’t have to be in the program to attend. If you want to join the program and get native seed mix, Click here to read more
