05/07/2026
A Big Step for Native Plants 🌱
We’re excited to share the next chapter in native plant conservation at Reflection Riding: the Tennessee Valley Seed Project.
This long-term commitment focuses on sourcing local ecotype seeds, establishing seed-producing plant populations in restored grassland habitat on campus, and propagating future generations of plants for our community and region.
What is an ecotype? An ecotype is a genetically distinct population within a plant species that has adapted to the specific conditions of a region—things like climate, soil, elevation, and seasonal patterns. By growing plants from local ecotypes, we can help support healthier, more resilient landscapes that are deeply connected to this place.
This work takes time, care, and collaboration. We anticipate having plant material available for the public beginning in 2028, and we’re just getting started.
The success of this effort will depend on community involvement, and we can’t wait to grow this alongside you. From seed scouting and ethical seed collection to propagation, growing, and planting, there will be many ways to participate in the years ahead. To get involved, contact [email protected].
Follow along to keep up with our progress, and learn more on our new blog.
We’re excited to announce our new native plant initiative, the TN Valley Seed Project. This multi-year project will cultivate resilient, locally-adapted plant individuals for their use in our regional community. Read on to learn how this methodology supports biodiversity!
