Pre-registration required.

Cost: $25 (25% off for BGA Members)

While male mosquitoes may consume a little nectar and thus help pollinate some plants, their female mates are human bloodsuckers and vectors for diseases! Insecticides and equipment that kill adult mosquitoes kill harmless, beneficial insects (including pollinators) as well. Adult mosquito killers are among a pollinator conservationist’s greatest challenge. Learn ways to keep mosquito populations in check without harming pollinators.

Instructor

Rachel Meriwether’s journey in the world of horticulture has been a happy and circuitous one. Born and raised in the vibrant landscapes of Louisiana, she developed an early fascination for the natural world and its intricate biodiversity, earning a degree in Resource Biology and Biodiversity at the University of Louisiana at Lafayette. Rachel’s horticultural expertise led her to explore various job opportunities in the field, gaining hands-on experience in nurturing and cultivating plants. Her passion for horticulture only deepened, and she pursued a graduate degree from Auburn University, specializing in Horticulture and particularly plant propagation. This advanced education equipped her with a deeper understanding of plant biology, cultivation techniques, and sustainable practices. Afterwards, Rachel took on the role as a farm manager, where she oversaw the operations of a farm for a decade. Her expertise in horticulture and her commitment to sustainable farming practices made a substantial impact on the success of the operation. In 2021, Rachel became head of the Horticulture Department at Blue Ridge Community College where she has been instrumental in designing and teaching a diverse range of classes related to horticulture. Her courses cover a wide spectrum of topics, including plant propagation, biological pest management, and horticulture therapy, among others. Rachel’s commitment to educating the next generation of horticulturists and her emphasis on sustainable and responsible practices have continued in this position. She continues to love teaching and learning about almost any topic related to plants and the natural world.

Photo of a mosquito on a hand by frank600/Getty Images.