Gardening with Edible & Medicinal Plants Workshop

Grow a deeper connection to your local landscape and discover how native plants nourish wellness and biodiversity.

From the texture of leaves to the scent of crushed herbs and the warmth of brewed tea, this hands-on workshop invites you to connect with native plants through your senses and their stories.

Led by Oxbow Native Plant Nursery Manager Lea Dyga, you’ll learn how to identify, grow, harvest, and use more than 10 native plants known for their nourishing and healing qualities. Along the way, you’ll sample edible herbs, explore their traditional and contemporary uses, and craft your own custom tea blend to take home.

YOU'LL DISCOVER:

• Healing Plant Wisdom: Build confidence in your connection to local plants by learning to identify and responsibly harvest native species recognized for their wellness benefits and cultural significance.
• Sensory Tea Exploration: Awaken wonder through guided sampling of wild herbs and teas while learning about their nourishing properties.
• Ecological Gardening Practices: Explore how growing native plants can support pollinators, enrich soil life, and foster a deeper relationship with the landscapes around you.

ABOUT YOUR FACILITATOR

Lea Dyga (they/them) is an ecologist, environmental educator, and community organizer originally from West Michigan. They hold a Bachelors of Environmental Plant Biology from Michigan State University. Since moving to Seattle in 2022, they've enjoyed making friends with the local flora and fungi through their AmeriCorps service at the Center for Urban Horticulture, by assisting the Seattle Lichen's Guild, and by leading adult education classes with the UW Botanic Gardens. Lea brought their passion for native plants to Oxbow in 2024 and now manages the nursery with care and vision as of 2025.

GRANT-SUPPORTED PRICING

We’re excited to offer this workshop at just $5, thanks to generous funding from 4Culture’s Doors Open grant! This experience is valued at $30, but the grant helps us make it accessible to more of our community.

We’re deeply grateful for this support, which allows us to connect more people with outdoor learning experiences.

All participants must register in advance—spaces are limited!