The Passive Solar Greenhouse: A Talk with Megan Riley, BLR Homeowner
Join us at the Lake Club for an owner led presentation:
Learn about native perennial gardening as well as a one-of-a-kind passive solar greenhouse designed by one of Bear Lake Reserve’s newest owners, Megan Riley. Relying solely on the sun’s rays for heat and manual vents to cool, M. R. Gardens’ 800 square foot greenhouse stays ideal growing conditions despite weather fluctuations—so seed propagation can continue year-round without supplemental heat or cooling. Water stored in barrels acts as thermal mass to trap heat, and then it releases at night. The angle of the roof also prevents the interior from overheating on warm days. Learn about passive solar design and how it makes sense for a commercial native plant venture.
We’ll also briefly discuss the aesthetics of native gardens. Wildflower gardens can be beautiful—if plant pairings, structure, seasonal color and maintenance are all considered. Megan’s mission has been to help make native gardening palatable to broad audiences by accentuating its beauty. Learn how to do so with design techniques and real-life examples.
Megan is the Owner of M. R. Gardens in Asheville, which primarily focuses on growing high quality native perennials, using solely organic methods. Customers can purchase plants at an online store and pick up orders at the farm. M R Gardens also provides opportunities for customers and budding professionals to learn about native flower design and ecological landscaping. Megan recently became an Owner at Bear Lake Reserve while she searches for new owners of the nursery to take it to the next level—so the business can properly supply the rising demand for native plants. M R Gardens perennial flowers will be available to purchase at Happier Hour.
*Following the presentation, Megan will have native plants for sale in the taproom and will be available for further discussion and questions.
Location: The Lake Club
Questions: Email mwelch@bearlakereserve.com
