Wild Ones Lexington Chapter promotes the use of native plants in private gardens and public landscapes.
Plants that are native to our region thrive here because they are adapted to our climate. They feed our local insects and sustain the higher order fauna of our region. Many native plants are stunningly beautiful and make great garden plants. In fact, gardening with natives is Nature’s way.
Wild Ones Has a New Meeting Location!
Meetings are now held at South Elkhorn Christian Church, 4343 Harrodsburg Rd, Lexington, KY 40513 unless event states otherwise. Our monthly meetings are on the first Thursday of the month, except for April which will be the second Thursday April 9th because of Holy Week. Our meetings are free to attend. From 6:30 to 7 PM is a social time with refreshments. Program starts at 7 PM. Join us!
The Garden Treasures Table at Wild Ones Meetings
Bring garden or nature-related items to the Garden Treasures table at chapter meetings. Items such as books on plants, birds, insects, butterflies, or clean pots, native plants or houseplants, seed packets, nature-themed art or crafts, and useful tools are welcome. Selected items may be taken in exchange for a cash donation to the chapter. If an item is not chosen, please take it with you when you leave.
Wild Ones Native Plant Event is May 7th
As we watch our gardens open, think about the native plants you have in your garden that you would like to bring and swap with fellow gardeners. Pot your native perennials, shrubs, ferns, trees, and grasses at least 2 weeks in advance, label them and bring them to this fun event. More information to follow.
Lexington Wild Ones 2026 Garden Grant Program
We are sponsoring 4 garden grants to encourage the planting of native plants. Grants are $300 each. Grant funds can be used to create a new garden or expand an existing garden. For more information on this opportunity, see Lexington Wild Ones 2026 Garden Grant.
Thursday March 5, 2026 6:30pm
Bringing Back the Forest
Dr. Chris Barton, UK Professor of Forestry, is also founder and president of Green Forests Work, an NGO that aims to improve the environment and economy of mined landscapes. Through this program, 8 million trees have been planted on mined lands in Appalachia and Australia and over 30,000 volunteers have participated. Dr. Barton will share research into reforestation of post-mined land and supporting programs.
Thursday April 9, 2026 6:30pm
Garden Grant Winners Present their Gardens
City Nature Challenge
Three recipients of the Lexington Wild Ones Garden Grants will describe their gardens, how they used the grant funds, and faced and resolved challenges. The meeting will also present the opportunity to volunteer in the City Nature Challenge. Beverly James, Executive Director of Floracliff Nature Sanctuary, will provide training and use of app iNaturalist. Please have the app downloaded on your phone.
Looking to buy native plants, hire a landscape service? Please see the Community tab.
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