Speaking

Education drives meaningful change—and Erica Gormley’s workshops make learning about sustainable landscaping and ecological gardening both inspiring and approachable. With a welcoming, energetic style, Erica covers a wide range of gardening topics, giving participants tools, tips, and strategies to bring ideas to life in their own yards.

Below are some of Erica’s offerings—if you don’t see a topic listed, please reach out directly. Furthermore, at this time, Erica’s schedule accommodates presenting in the Winter and Summer months. If you are in need of her services outside of this timeframe, please reach out and she will determine if it is feasible.

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Educational Workshop Offerings

  • Transform your traditional lawn into a thriving, low-maintenance garden with beauty and purpose. Learn how to replace turf with native plants, design flowing garden edges, and create a seamless transition that enhances your landscape. Discover techniques for reducing lawn space while maintaining an inviting, structured look that supports pollinators, conserves water and adds year-round interest.

  • Plan a stunning, eco-friendly landscape for lakesides, streambeds, and other wet areas—a natural filtration system that’s as beautiful as it is functional. In this session, you’ll learn how to create rain gardens and waterfront plantings that manage stormwater naturally, reduce runoff, and prevent erosion while protecting water quality. We’ll explore how to select native plants that thrive in moist conditions, stabilize soil, and provide year-round color and texture - all while supporting pollinators, birds, and aquatic life.

  • A hands-on seminar all about native berry-producing shrubs—the unsung heroes of ecological gardening. Discover how plants like Highbush Blueberry, Black Chokeberry, Elderberry, and Wild Black Currant can bring seasonal color, year-round structure, and essential food for wildlife right into your landscape. These shrubs aren’t just beautiful—they’re powerful allies in creating healthy, low-maintenance gardens that support pollinators, birds, and biodiversity.

  • Create a resilient, water-wise garden that thrives in dry conditions without frequent watering. Learn how to select hardy native plants, improve soil health, and design a beautiful, low-maintenance landscape that supports pollinators and wildlife. Discover strategies for conserving moisture, reducing runoff, and maintaining a lush, sustainable garden even in periods of drought.

  • Transform your shaded spaces into layered, thriving ecosystems with the right mix of native plants and shrubs. We’ll explore how to combine textures—from the soft carpets of woodland groundcovers to the bold foliage of shade-tolerant perennials and the graceful structure of understory shrubs. Learn how to design for beauty, depth, and biodiversity, creating shade gardens that provide year-round interest and vital habitat for pollinators, birds, and other wildlife.

  • Extend the bloom season and support pollinators through autumn with a garden designed for late-season nectar and habitat. Learn how to select native plants that provide essential food sources, create striking seasonal displays, and maintain a healthy ecosystem as temperatures drop. Discover design strategies and maintenance tips to ensure your garden remains vibrant and beneficial for bees, butterflies, and migrating species well into fall.

  • Attract a diverse array of birds to your garden by providing natural food sources, shelter, and nesting spaces. Learn how to design a landscape that supports birds year-round using native plants, berry-producing shrubs, seed-rich flowers, and water features. Discover which plants best support local and migrating species, how to create layered habitats, and strategies for maintaining a bird-friendly environment without relying on traditional feeders.

  • Master the art of pruning to keep your plants healthy, vibrant, and beautifully shaped. Learn the essential techniques for pruning shrubs and perennials, including when and how to cut, what tools to use, and how to encourage strong growth and blooming. Whether you're a beginner or looking to refine your skills, this workshop will provide the knowledge and confidence to maintain your garden with ease.

  • Turn kitchen scraps and yard waste into black gold! In this beginner-friendly class, you’ll learn how to create and maintain a healthy compost system right at home. We’ll cover composting techniques and tools, what to compost (and what to avoid), and how to create the perfect compost balance. Reduce waste. Nourish your soil. Grow a greener future!

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As Seen At & Presented For

Let us enrich your landscape.

Join the waitlist!

We’re currently booking on a waitlist basis. If you're interested in working together, please fill out the form to share a bit about your property and goals. We'll be in touch as availability opens up.

summersweetnj@gmail.com
Denville, NJ 07834