Inspiration and Creativity, Taking Cues From Nature – August 15, 2026

Description

A presentation of the Ecological Landscaping Speaker Series & Native Garden Tours

Location

Adkins Arboretum • 12610 Eveland Road • Ridgely, MD 21660

Date & Time

Saturday, August 15, 2026 • 10 am–noon

Nature inspired.
 
Dan Benarcik will present an artistic approach to designing necessary items in the public garden, park, space, or world, drawing inspiration from the place and living community where it will be placed and used. Many examples are from Chanticleer, providing a great introduction to the garden.

Meet Dan

Dan Benarcik has worked at Chanticleer for over 30 years and currently oversees their Tennis Court Garden, primarily a perennial garden, with seasonal and annual additions. He judges for the Philadelphia Flower Show and has worked on extended assignments at Lotusland, Long Vue House, and Ayerlies Garden. A former Regional Director of the Garden Writers Association, he has written for many publications, including Fine Gardening, Horticulture, and Martha Stewart Living.

Ecological Landscaping Speaker Series & Native Garden Tours

In 2023, 2024, 2025, and 2026, Adkins Arboretum received funding from the Chesapeake Bay Trust (CBT) to provide outreach and education to local Homeowner Associations (HOAs) and the general public, supporting environmentally friendly landscaping practices. 

This series was developed by building on the Naturally Better Landscaping project, in partnership with ShoreRivers, Eastern Shore Land Conservancy, Pickering Creek, Phillips Wharf, and Wild Ones. It is offered free of charge thanks to funding from CBT and Queen Anne’s County, and open to the general public.

Register
Details
This field is required.