You are cordially invited to
The Garden Club Federation of Maine 95th Fall Conference
Tuesday, October 27, 2026
Snow Pond Center for the Arts, 8 Goldenrod Lane, Sidney, ME
Morning Reception: Light breakfast snacks (baked goods, fruit, coffee/tea)
Morning Program: Bringing Nature Home: Designing Maine Landscapes Inspired by Native Plant Communities
Speaker: Andrew Tufts, Program Manager of Native Plants, Maine Audubon Society
Across Maine, a quiet transformation is underway—one that reimagines our gardens not just as beautiful spaces, but as vital habitat. In this presentation, Andrew Tufts explores how gardeners can play a meaningful role in supporting birds, pollinators, and broader ecological health by working with Maine’s native plants. Drawing on the work of Maine Audubon’s Native Plants Initiative, Andrew introduces the concept of designing with natural plant communities—using patterns found in forests, wetlands, and coastal systems to guide planting decisions at home.
Participants will learn how to:
- Select native plants based on real site conditions like light, moisture, and soils
- Understand and apply the concept of natural plant communities in residential landscapes
- Create layered, resilient plantings that provide food and shelter for wildlife throughout the year
- Shift from ornamental gardening toward functional, ecologically rich landscapes
Through case studies, visuals, and practical guidance, this talk offers both inspiration and actionable steps for gardeners ready to make a difference—right outside their door.
Lunch: Sandwich board. Seasonal baked goods will be provided by members of the Kennebec District Garden Clubs.
Afternoon Program: Sunset Flowerland & Greenhouses – Creating Seasonal Décor with Natural Materials
Workshop leaders, Cathy and Abby from Sunset Flowerland & Greenhouses, will be showing us how to make centerpieces and hand-tied bouquets using native plants that are available during
the fall such as native evergreens, dried grasses, pinecones, ferns, willow branches and possibly asters. They will be using a few stems of mini carnations or other cut flowers, as well.
Vince Butera, an award-winning wedding florist from Sedgwick, will present a floral demonstration. He has expertise in artistic floral design, destination weddings, and working with clients to fulfill their vision through individualized botanical artistry. He is certified by the American Academy of Floriculture, American Institute of Floral Designers, and Professional Floral Communicators International.
Associate Professor of landscape architecture and horticulture, will speak on
