Clermont SWCD to Host Master Rain Gardener Course This Fall

For the first time, Clermont SWCD will be hosting the Greater Cincinnati Master Rain Gardener Course. This is a 5-day course that takes place over six weeks from August 4 to September 8. During the course, students are guided through the rain garden design and installation process by experienced regional professionals. At graduation, students will have created a beautiful rain garden and will be ready to educate their neighbors.

Course Details

9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.

August 4, 11, 18, 25 and September 8

$50 registration fee

Location: Clermont County Park District, 2156 US Highway 50, Batavia OH 45103

For additional information, registration, and to see a list of rotating host locations, visit www.cincyraingardener.org.

Stream Buffer Plants Available at Plant Sale

Buttonbush is a great option for stream buffers and is a favorite of butterflies. Photo from U.S. Fish and Wildlife.

The “Be the Change for Clean Water” article describes how a buffer of native plants along a stream helps prevent bank erosion, filters pollutants, cools the stream, and provides habitat for pollinators and other wildlife. Several of the species we are offering as part of our annual plant sale work well as stream buffers. In particular, buttonbush will work very well along the stream edge. Other plants will fare well higher up on the bank including:

  • Spicebush
  • Serviceberry
  • Elderberry
  • Maple leaf viburnum
  • Hazelnut
  • Redbud

For questions on what plants would work best in your stream bank buffer, contact Clermont SWCD at 513-732-7075 for assistance.