A version of this article originally appeared in The Northwest Herald.

At the recent University of Illinois Extension McHenry County Master Gardeners' meeting, Laurie Ryan, plant ecologist from the McHenry County Conservation District, presented a program on native plant identification. Ryan's presentation included a description of identifying natives by flower type, plant type and leaf type. She also provided a list of recommended books on native plant identification, ecological restoration and invasive species. (From left) Brenda Dahlfors, master gardener coordinator, Laurie Ryan and Betsy Meyer, master gardener.