Common Buckeye Butterfly on common grass-leaved-goldenrod/flat-top goldentop, photo DMcGrady

Powerful Plants in the Garden

October 11, 2026 | 1:00 – 2:00 pm

Conference Room |Audubon Society’s Powder Mill Ledges Wildlife Refuge 

12 Sanderson Rd, (Greenville) Smithfield, RI 02828 

The Rhode Island Wild Plant Society is pleased to welcome Stephen Kiely, Principal Designer of Kiely Ecological Landscapes LLC, for a fun and thought-provoking look at plants that can be powerful—and sometimes intimidating—in the garden.

Powerful plants have the potential to overtake a garden space.  These plants, such as mints and  goldenrods, have a place in the garden if you know how best to work with them instead of against them.  They can form a solid ecological backbone for different types of gardens, from traditional foundation plantings to meadows. Stephen’s deep understanding of native plants and ecological design offers a fresh perspective on how we can embrace these powerful plants and use them thoughtfully in our landscapes.

Stephen’s professional work focuses on creating beautiful ecological gardens throughout New England. He holds a Master of Science in Ecological Design from the Conway School of Landscape Design and brings a deep commitment to native plants, holistic design, and finding joy in every landscape.

After the presentation, stay awhile and enjoy the fall foliage on the trails of this lovely Audubon wildlife refuge!

RIWPS Member $10 | Non-Member $15  — or become a Sponsor for $25 or a Sustainer for $50 to support RIWPS educational events.

Advance Registration Required – space is limited.

Submit a separate registration for each person