Grasses are something that we do not always give a lot of thought to when planting our gardens. The images that may come to mind are a swath of low-cut lawn grasses or crabgrass that needs to be constantly weeded out of our flower beds. But the use of native grasses in our landscapes is far different and can provide a viable, useful and attractive planting. Gary Kauffmann will be the September speaker on how native grasses can become a vital part of our cultivation plans.  The talk is sponsored by the Extension Master Gardener℠ Volunteers of Transylvania County and is part of the monthly program of talks and demonstrations that will interest Master Gardeners, amateur gardeners, and the public at large.

Grasses are a vital part of Southern Appalachian plant communities. They can be found in open balds or wetlands, in areas periodically disturbed by tree fall, mowing, or fire, and in shady understory communities. Gary will present an overview of native grass species, their classification, their associated plant communities, and favorable species for native gardens.

Gary Kauffman has been the botanist/ecologist program manager for the National Forests in North Carolina since April 2007.  The National Forests in North Carolina covers 1.2 million acres across 4 forests, the Nantahala and Pisgah National Forests in the mountains, the Uwharrie National Forest in Piedmont, and the Croatan National Forest in the Coastal Plain.  Gary has been with the USFS since 1992 previously filling the Nantahala National Forest botanist position from 1992 to 2000.  Gary has a master’s degree in botany/mycology.  He is originally from Ohio having moved and lived in western North Carolina for the past 33 years.   He is married to a Brevard native.

The talk is sponsored by the Extension Master Gardener℠ Volunteers of Transylvania County and will be on Tuesday, September 13th, from 10 to 11.00 am. and will be held in the Community Services  Conference Room at 106 E. Morgan St. in Brevard. The public is most welcome and there is no charge. Light refreshments will be served starting at 9.30 am. Telephone at 828-884-3109 for any questions.

Janet Lute

Master Gardener