Invasive Plant Species Subject Of Professor's Talk In Mercer County

HAMILTON TOWNSHIP, NJ — A popular adjunct professor at Rutgers University who owns and operates of a plant nursery in Millstone Township, Monmouth County, will share his passion for native plants in Mercer County.

Steven Kristoph will speak at the Hamilton Public Library, 1 Justice Alito Way in Hamilton Township, on Wednesday evening, Oct. 25, 7 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. The free program is sponsored by the Rutgers Master Gardeners of Mercer County and is open to the public.

Kristoph will focus on native plants, reflecting the increasing trend in the landscape industry toward using more native plants that has taken place over the past 25 years. Concerned over the invasiveness of some introduced species, environmental groups and others have succeeded in increasing awareness. In some cases, they have led the way to legislation that requires native plant use.

The lecture includes mainstay natives as well as those demanding a second look for consideration, highlighting their ornamental value and relationship between other species that leads to a bio-diverse and sustainable landscape.

Seating is limited, and preregistration is strongly recommended. Register by email at rmgofmcprograms@gmail.com or call the Extension office at 609-989-6830.

The Master Gardeners of Mercer County is a volunteer educational outreach program of Rutgers Cooperative Extension, 930 Spruce Street in Lawrence Township. Rutgers Master Gardeners participate in many volunteer programs throughout the county, as well as answer home Horticulture questions through their Rutgers Master Gardener Helpline, 609-989-6853, Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., March through October and 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., November through February.

For more information on the Rutgers Master Gardener program, the Mercer Educational Gardens or other Extension educational programs, contact Rutgers Cooperative Extension at 609-989-6830 or visit www.mgofmc.org.

Cooperating Agencies: Rutgers, the State University of New Jersey; U.S. Department of Agriculture and County Boards of Chosen Freeholders. Rutgers Cooperative Extension, a unit of the New Jersey Agricultural Experimental Station, is an equal opportunity program provider and employer. Contact your local Extension Office for information regarding special needs or accommodations. Contact the State Extension Director's Office if you have concerns related to discrimination, 848-932-3584.

The attached image of Steven Krisoph was provided by Mercer County officials