The Dahlia Dialogue with Sonya Carpenter

On Saturday, September 12 at 11:00 a.m., Highlands ecologist and garden designer Sonya Carpenter presents a talk on how dahlias are perceived by the other species we share our gardens with. Her presentation considers whether the bright, showy forms of the dahlia draw wildlife to the garden, and what it takes to keep butterflies, birds, and pollinators nourished and present throughout the season. Drawing on her background in ecology, Carpenter examines how color attracts pollinators and how gardeners on the Highlands Plateau can make intentional choices to create greater abundance, food, and shelter for the full community of species that inhabits our landscapes.

Carpenter studied ecology at the University of Florida and co-owns Co-Habitate, a Highlands-based landscape company she runs with her husband Canty Worley, dedicated to creating and maintaining gardens in balance with nature. She served nine years as Director of the Highlands Biological Foundation and currently assists HBF with their north campus improvement project at the Highlands Biological Station. She is also President of the Highlands Plateau Greenway and the local coordinator for Bee City USA.  

Thank you!

The Dazzling Dahlia Festival is made possible with generous support from Bryson's Grading, Visit Highlands and the North Carolina Arts Council.