Pollinators, Insects, and Native Plants

Insects are among the most interesting and diverse animals on earth and despite their small size, they’re also among the most important. Insects pollinate, recycle, control pests, and so much more! Join us for a stroll through the garden as we learn about the insects we see, their role in our ecosystems, and how we can attract them to our own yards using native plants and ecological gardening practices. Feel free to come with questions about your own mystery insects. Let’s learn just how cool bugs can be!

Instructor Bio

Samantha Nestory is the engagement manager and naturalist at Stoneleigh: a natural garden in Villanova. In her position, she develops educational programming, coordinates public events, and manages the volunteer program. Previously, she worked as a horticulturist at Stoneleigh for nearly four years. Samantha has also worked with Sarver Ecological, an ecological consulting firm, and the Morris Arboretum of the University of Pennsylvania. She is passionate about native plants, ecological gardening, and insect conservation, and she is strongly committed to educating the public about these important issues.