Learn how to attract beneficial insects to your garden when Smithsonian horticulturalist Graham Davis speaks at the Takoma Park Community Center on Wednesday, June 18, 7-9 pm.

He will talk about plants that attract desirable insects and how to distinguish insects that will help your garden from those that will do it harm.

In addition to slides, he hopes to use a projecting microscope to show living examples of our beneficial insects at work. During the event, native flowers and grasses will be available for purchase at just $1.00 each.

Graham Davis has been the integrated pest management specialist for Smithsonian Gardens for six years, where he also serves as turf management specialist.

Born and raised in the Washington area, he earned his bachelor's degree in plant and soil science at the University of Arizona and a master's degree at the University of California, Davis. When he is not shuttling his two boys to their athletic activities, he can often be found bike riding in Rock Creek

Free parking is available at the Community Center. The event is sponsored by the City of Takoma Park. For more information, email Daryl Braithwaite at darylb@takomaparkmd.gov and include "Beneficial Bugs" in the subject line.