Ryan Merck: “Ethical Seed Sourcing & How to Propagate”
On October 21, we welcome Ryan Merck, owner of Blue Oak Horticulture, for an engaging program on how to responsibly collect and grow native plant seeds. Ryan will explore the ethics and best practices of seed collection—how to know when it’s appropriate to gather seeds from the wild and how to do it in a way that supports healthy ecosystems.
He’ll also share practical techniques for getting those ethically sourced seeds to sprout and thrive, drawing from his decades of horticultural and ecological experience. Expect an informative and inspiring discussion for anyone who wants to take a hands-on role in sustaining native biodiversity.
All are welcome at this free event.
For information on how to attend this meeting, please visit the Meeting Event Page.
BIO:
Ryan Merck
Owner, Blue Oak Horticulture
Ryan’s love of the outside world was developed over decades of observing and studying life in the awe-inspiring natural world of the oldest ecosystem on Earth—the Southern Appalachians. After earning a horticulture degree from Clemson University, he served as Greenhouse and Nursery Manager for the South Carolina Botanical Garden (SCBG), where for ten years he provided all plant material for SCBG installations and semi-annual plant sales.
During that time, Ryan also served as Nature-Based Sculpture Conservator, working with artists in residence and interdisciplinary student teams to install site-inspired art across the 300-acre public garden.
In 2012, he joined the Clemson Organic Certification Program, managing the certification of organic farms and processors throughout South Carolina. This shift in focus allowed Ryan to develop his knowledge of agricultural production and understand the critical role that farms play in the sustenance of not just humans but also wildlife in our continually developing world.
Later, as part of California Certified Organic Farmers, he conducted organic compliance reviews across the U.S., deepening his understanding of sustainable agricultural systems.
Today, Ryan works full time at Blue Oak Horticulture in northern Taylors, near Lake Robinson, where he and his wife Carrie grow plants that nourish insects, wildlife, and humans alike—cultivating a living example of balance and biodiversity.
