Seasonal interest is not all about the flowers—sometimes the foliage provides the greater show, and in many cases the two work together to bridge seasons. Richard Hawke, director of ornamental plant research at the Chicago Botanic Garden, will share information on perennials that are proving to be beautiful, reliable, and hardy in its trials.

Speaker’s bio:

Richard earned his bachelor of science degree in horticulture from the University of Wisconsin-Madison and joined the Chicago Botanic Garden in 1985. Today he oversees its evaluation, breeding and introduction programs, which are among the largest and most diverse in the nation. Richard is an author, a contributing editor for Fine Gardening magazine and the current past president of the Perennial Plant Association.