Fall color combos: Larry Newlin will discuss attractive plant combinations for fall at the Reems Creek Nursery on Saturday, Oct. 20, at 10 a.m. He’ll also describe flowering shrubs, perennials and grasses, and explain how blending plants of varying textures and forms can promote a sense of harmony and dynamism in the garden. Newlin, territory manager for Imperial Nurseries, owned his own garden center for 20 years and partners with his wife, Lee, to lead tours of public and private gardens. The event is free but preregistration is expected. Call 645-3937. Reems Creek Nursery is located at 70 Monticello Road in Weaverville.
Little folk: The North Carolina Arboretum offers a wide selection of fall educational programs for children and parents. Parents and their preschoolers can explore nature’s wonders together during “Wee Naturalist” programs designed for children ages 2-5. Classes are held on Mondays and Tuesdays from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. The sessions run now through May, with a new theme every month. Children will learn about trees, birds, bears, bugs, raindrops and more. The cost is $5 per child with parent/guardian, due upon arrival. Walk-ins only.
Discovering nature: The Arboretum will host Nature Discovery Days for children in grades 2 to 4. Classes are held from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Buncombe County School teacher workdays and provide hands-on learning with games, hikes and fun in the woods with an Arboretum naturalist. Upcoming sessions include:
• All About Black Bears, Oct. 22.
• Bird Brains, Nov. 12.
Each session is $25 per participant and is limited to 12 students. Payment must be received along with a completed registration form to guarantee a reservation. For more info visit www.ncarboretum.org or call 665-2492.