PlantFest! Pre-Sale Teaser Program
Top 25 Native Plants to Use in the Landscape
Featuring Lee Rouse
Sunday, September 28 | 2-3:30 pm
This year’s Teaser program will feature Lee Rouse, a Baton Rouge–based horticulturist
with more than 20 years of commercial and academic experience, known for his engaging,
practical presentations that inspire gardeners across South Louisiana. In his talk,
Lee will highlight his favorite native species, share why they deserve a spot in your
yard, and offer tips on how to successfully grow them in our climate.
A licensed arborist and horticulturist with a Master’s degree in Plant and Soil Systems from Louisiana State University, Rouse spent eight years teaching the Louisiana Master Gardener program at LSU AgCenter, where he guided countless gardeners through topics ranging from botany and pest control to hydroponics. He has served as President of the Louisiana State Horticulture Society, is a board member of the Louisiana Nursery and Landscape Association and has helped establish school gardens at 10 Louisiana schools. His monthly InRegister magazine column, past radio show Bayou Gardens on WRKF, and many public speaking appearances have made him a trusted source for seasonal, science-based gardening advice.
Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned gardener, Lee’s presentation will equip you with the knowledge and inspiration to integrate more native plants into your landscape—enhancing beauty, supporting local wildlife, and promoting sustainability.
Following the program, enter a ticket to win a featured plant, then join us for a post-program tour of the Hodge Podge Nursery to view the plants available at the sale. Don’t miss this opportunity to decide which plants from PlantFest! you’d like to introduce to your yard!
For additional information, please contact Hilltop at 225-767-6916 or email.