Ask the Experts

Each session will last 7-10 mins, allowing residents to ask questions and discuss specific topics about soil types, native gardening, rain gardens, water harvesting, solar panels, permeable surfaces and home energy projects.

Please come prepared with measurements and pictures of your space, and info about your project, eg. soil type, location of your downspouts, and age of home for home energy projects. 

A bell will signal the end of each session, and you’ll move on to the next expert.

This is a child-friendly event, and you are welcome to let your kids hang out in our children’s activity area while you talk shop with the experts. Our kids area will include fun activities such as: meeting our vermicompost worms, making seedballs, and colouring! 

Here’s a glimpse into the topics and our expert speakers for the event:

Find the balance between aesthetics and sustainability. Learn how to select native plant species that complement one another and mimic natural ecosystems. Our expert will explain the local climate, soil types, sunlight exposure, and space constraints to determine which plants will thrive in your specific environment. Consider factors such as plant size, growth habit, bloom time, and maintenance requirements to ensure compatibility with your design goals and lifestyle.You can create beautiful landscapes that also serve as havens for local wildlife and promote environmental resilience.

Homeowners play a crucial role in maintaining the health and vitality of trees on their property. Understanding the fundamentals of tree care is essential for ensuring longevity and beauty. Consult with our tree experts, Annabella and Sarah, and get valuable guidance on species-specific needs, pest management, and overall maintenance, contributing to the long-term health and beauty of the trees on their property.

Come prepared with {soil type (clay, loam, sand, silt), what type of slope you have (i.e. downhill or uphill), adjacent to any woodlots/forests/escarpment/etc, pictures of any trees or other plants on your property, what type of light condition, size of the property, and any obstruction (close to building, overhead wires, etc)}

Not sure how to find your soil type? Take pictures or bring a sample in a jar and we can help you. 

Water scarcity is a pressing issue in many regions, making efficient water management essential for sustainable living. Ask our expert, Garrett Tribble about various strategies for lowering your water bill by reducing water consumption in landscaping, such as installing drip irrigation systems, harvesting rainwater, and using drought-tolerant plants. By adopting these practices, homeowners can significantly decrease their water usage while maintaining lush and healthy outdoor spaces.

Learn how to manage and reduce stormwater runoff by installing a rain garden. These gardens are designed to capture and absorb rainwater, reduce erosion, alleviate flooding, and filter pollutants before they reach local waterways. By learning about rain gardens, homeowners can play a crucial role in mitigating the impacts of urbanization on the environment while enhancing the beauty and functionality of their landscapes. Understanding the principles of site selection, soil preparation, plant selection, and maintenance is key to creating successful rain gardens that not only conserve water but also provide habitat for wildlife and add aesthetic value to outdoor spaces.

In addition to landscaping and water management, the event will also explore the role of home energy retrofit in reducing carbon footprints and enhancing comfort and affordability. Experts will share insights into energy-efficient upgrades, such as installing solar panels, improving insulation, and upgrading HVAC systems. By making these investments, homeowners can not only lower their utility bills but also contribute to the collective effort to combat climate change.

Learning to identify and remove invasive species on your property is crucial for preserving the health and biodiversity of your ecosystem. By familiarizing yourself with the characteristics of invasive plants, animals, and insects in Hamilton, you can effectively detect and manage their presence. Join Bryson McEwen, Invasive Species Technician at Hamilton Conservation Authority to help you identify invasive species and create a plan to remove them before they outcompete native vegetation, disrupt habitats, and threaten the balance of your ecosystem.

Living harmoniously with wildlife involves creating a welcoming environment that supports and respects the natural habitats of local flora and fauna. This can be achieved through planting a wide variety of native species, and incorporating elements into the landscape that naturally support species throughout their life cycles by offering forage, shelter and protection. Where conditions are suitable, and when installed correctly, birdhouses, bat boxes, and other artificial nesting structures can provide habitat. By strategically placing nesting structures throughout your landscape, you can encourage biodiversity, promote natural pest control, and foster a deeper connection with the wildlife that shares your surroundings. Additionally, incorporating native plants and avoiding the use of pesticides can further enhance the habitat value of your garden, creating a thriving ecosystem where both humans and wildlife can coexist in harmony.

• Air photo/map of the property (we can assist with this on-site)
• Diagram of the property. Please sketch out your property, or garden idea 
• Infrastructure on the property if applicable – well, septic’s, overhead/underground utilities
• Know the property exposure/direction
• Number of downspouts, connection type and what this drains (e.g. all or part of roof), and where it drains to. You can walk around the property and take pictures of your downspout or draw a diagram. 
• Soil type and drainage, slope (we can assist with this on-site)
• Any property history that’s relevant
• Photos

At this event, the Green Venture staff will also explain the residential rebate program where homeowners are eligible for a rebate up to $500 for approved green infrastructure projects.