by Miska Redmond ✎
MEMBERS AND FRIENDS of Wild Ones Greater Baltimore had the honor of touring Kollar Nursery at summer’s end. The family has owned and operated Kollar Nursery since 1985. Located in rural Harford County near the Pennsylvania border, this ecological oasis is the brainchild of an exceptionally knowledgeable and ecologically minded family. Started by Stanley and Sharon Kollar in 1985, the property has been a source of ecological renewal for many decades.
The entrance to the Nursery is tucked away on a little country lane that weaves through forest and grassland near Pylesville, Maryland. It is clear when you enter the property that it is an oasis for both native plants and wildlife alike.
This event had a large turn out. After arriving, the chapter met at the top of the property near the main greenhouse, greeted by owner/operator Stan and Sharon Kollar.
Ecologically Focused Business
The Kollars work together seamlessly to create both a holistic customer service, and an ecologically focused business based on strong environmental science and years of cultivation experience. Stan is an ecologist and botanist who holds a Master’s Degree in Ecology from UC Santa Barbara. He has been dedicated to native flora for most of his life. A professor at Harford Community College, his welcome was part greeting, and part environmental lesson, which delighted multiple members.
Members learned about a variety of ecological topics in the Central Maryland area, from invasive species such as the Sponge Moth and the Spotted Lantern Fly, to the issues plaguing the Chesapeake Bay. Stan shared some history of bay restoration, including his part in restoring native sea grasses to the area.
After the question-and-answer session, we split into teams and headed off on tours of the property. Stan holds the knowledge and has a great educational demeanor and Sharon cultivates strong relationships with many of her customers. Her knowledge of people and what they were in need of in their yards was apparent as she discussed the needs of repeat visitors. Sharon spoke of the plants with love and familiarity as she guided us. Her knowledge, along with Stan’s ecological perspective, enriched our experience as we wandered through the greenhouse.
Years of Plant Experience
The next portion of our education began with Sharon and Stan teaching the group about the plants in the greenhouse of this ecological oasis. They explained the importance of native plants and shared information about pollinators and other beneficial insects. They also discussed the significance of shrubs for our local bird population. Sharon seamlessly promoted plants for their beauty, giving ideas for possible arrangements. Stan explained the history of many plants—where they exist locally, and their importance as a native species. Stan promoted native plants long before it became fashionable, and he has built his knowledge through decades of study.
Benefits to Wildlife
As we went along looking at the various plants on the property, many members asked valuable questions about the benefits of specific plants, and the uses of them in the natural areas of our yards. Kollar nursery possesses a massive repository of plants, both straight species and cultivars.
They also add to the environment by providing spaces for various wildlife. Butterflies, bees, moths, frogs, and various other insects bobbed around the plants, the ponds, and woodland features. It is truly an ecological oasis. Their son, Jeremy, who is a landscape architect, led the second part of the tour. Jeremy took members down to the grounds beyond plant retail space. Groves of mature trees, a large pond, and beautiful northern Maryland scenery sprawled out for acres. We spotted frogs and birds enjoying the water.
This woodland nursery is responsibly run by educated members of the larger ecological restoration and renewal effort in Maryland. It is a scenic forty-five minute drive from Baltimore, providing both native plants and education.
We, at Wild Ones Greater Baltimore, look forward to future events with Stan and Sharon, and more educational opportunities at Kollar Nursery. ❀
If you are interested in helping us organize more events like this, please consider joining us as a member and volunteer!
Photos by Anne Gneo and Amanda Wray