For the first workshop in the three-part Friends of the Monarch series, we will do a deep dive on native milkweed species, which are also collectively called Asclepias! Milkweeds have vast historical importance to the Americas spanning back millennia and into modern times, and you will learn about this plant's natural history, the importance of milkweed to indigenous peoples and the contemporary role of milkweed as a host for the monarch butterfly.

As you uncover the history of the plant, you will also learn about the most appropriate species of milkweed for the Piedmont region, which species are best suited for your own home gardens and what other native plants will best attract multiple pollinators and shelter monarch caterpillars, and where to find milkweed of all different species grown and sold locally around Winston-Salem. The "Milkweed!" workshop has an indoor lecture portion and an outdoor garden portion. After attending this program, you will have the knowledge and tools you need to grow the milkweeds native to your region so your pollinator garden can flourish and continue milkweed’s story into the future! 

Our gardens here at Old Salem may be wet or muddy on the day of the event, so weather-appropriate clothing and closed toe shoes are required if you choose to join us and take part in supporting monarchs and other pollinators of our region. 

This workshop is suited for ages 16+. Children under the age of 18 registered for this event must be accompanied by a registered adult. Check-in for this program will be at the Garden Education Center within the Single Brothers' Workshop, 10 W. Academy Street (entrance is through the courtyard gate between the buildings, to the right, and up the ramp). Please arrive 15 minutes prior to allow time for check-in!