Native Plants and Wild Gourds with Gatlin Bunton
Saturday, May 30, 2026
12:00 - 3:00 PM
Gardeners, conservation enthusiasts, and curious community members alike will have the opportunity to learn about the importance of native plants during a special presentation by Gatlin Bunton of Ozark Native Seed.
Based in Steelville, Ozark Native Seed specializes in supplying native grasses and wildflowers to communities across Missouri. Much of the company’s seed is grown locally in Phelps County, supporting both regional agriculture and conservation efforts.
The presentation will focus on seed starting techniques and the vital role native plants play in supporting ecosystems throughout Phelps County and surrounding areas. Native grasses and wildflowers not only provide beauty to landscapes and gardens, but also improve forage opportunities, strengthen wildlife habitat, and promote healthier environments for pollinators and other native species.
Ozark Native Seed works with farmers, landowners, and families interested in creating sustainable landscapes, productive forage systems, and vibrant home gardens using plants naturally adapted to Missouri’s climate and soil conditions.
Attendees will also discover a lesser-known botanical treasure of the Ozarks — wild gourds. These fascinating plants are considered the wild relatives of many pumpkins, squash, and decorative gourds commonly grown in home gardens today.
During the hands-on learning session, Bunton will guide participants through the basics of growing native plants and wild gourds from seed. Topics will include proper soil preparation, planting depth, watering practices, and caring for young plants to help gardeners achieve healthy and successful growth.
The educational demonstration aims to give participants practical knowledge they can apply in their own gardens while encouraging greater appreciation for the native plants that have long been part of the Ozark landscape.
Whether attendees are experienced gardeners or simply interested in learning more about Missouri’s native species, the presentation promises to offer both useful information and a deeper connection to the region’s natural heritage.
Based in Steelville, Ozark Native Seed specializes in supplying native grasses and wildflowers to communities across Missouri. Much of the company’s seed is grown locally in Phelps County, supporting both regional agriculture and conservation efforts.
The presentation will focus on seed starting techniques and the vital role native plants play in supporting ecosystems throughout Phelps County and surrounding areas. Native grasses and wildflowers not only provide beauty to landscapes and gardens, but also improve forage opportunities, strengthen wildlife habitat, and promote healthier environments for pollinators and other native species.
Ozark Native Seed works with farmers, landowners, and families interested in creating sustainable landscapes, productive forage systems, and vibrant home gardens using plants naturally adapted to Missouri’s climate and soil conditions.
Attendees will also discover a lesser-known botanical treasure of the Ozarks — wild gourds. These fascinating plants are considered the wild relatives of many pumpkins, squash, and decorative gourds commonly grown in home gardens today.
During the hands-on learning session, Bunton will guide participants through the basics of growing native plants and wild gourds from seed. Topics will include proper soil preparation, planting depth, watering practices, and caring for young plants to help gardeners achieve healthy and successful growth.
The educational demonstration aims to give participants practical knowledge they can apply in their own gardens while encouraging greater appreciation for the native plants that have long been part of the Ozark landscape.
Whether attendees are experienced gardeners or simply interested in learning more about Missouri’s native species, the presentation promises to offer both useful information and a deeper connection to the region’s natural heritage.
