Locavores and garden history enthusiasts, take note: John Forti, the curator of historic gardens at Strawbery Banke Museum in Portsmouth, N.H., is on-Island this week to offer two programs on the plants, people and history in New England.

On Tuesday, August 16 his talk Heirloom and Native Plants: A Living History, will look at how heirloom and native plants forge a link to our regional garden history and culinary traditions. The talk is hosted by Polly Hill Arboretum. Tickets are $20, or $10 for arboretum members.

Mr. Forti will lead a Wild Edibles and Medicinals Walk on Wednesday, August 17. In this hands-on nature walk and talk, participants will learn to read the landscape in order tobetter understand our habitat and how it has supported people over history. Mr. Forti will lead the group as they walk, observe and gather wild edibles to create salad and herbal tea to enjoy together. The cost is $25, or $15 for arboretum members.

Both programs are from 10 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. Please preregister at 508-693-9426.