The GNPS Educational Pathway is a curated experience for people to more easily access the most helpful and trusted information on native plants. This online course was developed after receiving much feedback from our members about the overwhelming amount of information available publicly about native plants. We have provided what we feel is the best information and resources for learning about native plants. The Pathway can be a starting point or a midpoint; it includes 10 learning modules that can be completed at your own pace including:
- Introduction – Why Native?
- Basic Botany
- Plant Identification
- Ecosystems and Natural Communities of Georgia
- Basic Principles of Gardening
- Landscape Design
- Plant Propagation
- Invasive Plant Management
- Edible and Medicinal Native Plants
- Cultural History of Native Plants
Each module features core content, self-quizzes and additional resources to go beyond the basics. Course materials were curated by the GNPS Education Committee, many who have decades of knowledge and experience learning and teaching about native plants. And the best part – this is FREE to GNPS members!

Accessing the Educational Pathway
You must be a current GNPS member to access the Pathway. You will register for the course through the GNPS member portal and enroll through Canvas, an online course platform. Here are the steps to access it:
- Click here to view the registration page.
- Click on “Educational Pathway Access.” If it does not appear, your membership may not be up to date. Be sure to join or renew your membership to move forward.
- Follow the prompts for registering. This includes a short form that tells us more about you and your interest in the course.
- Once you complete registration, a confirmation titled “Details for Educational Pathway” will be sent to you with enrollment information.