Blog
From Pollinators to Whole Ecosystems: Expanding Our Gardening Focus
In recent years, the surge in popularity of pollinator gardens has been a heartening development for environmental enthusiasts and gardeners alike. These gardens, teeming with bees, butterflies, and other pollinators, have become symbols of ecological awareness and conservation. Yet, as we delve deeper into the realms of sustainable gardening, a broader perspective emerges, one that considers not only pollinators but the entire ecosystem.
Read MoreDitch the Mulch, Plant Densely: A Natural Approach to Gardening
Natural gardens use a dense matrix of plants that acts as its own “living mulch”. This approach does a better job of mimicking how plants actually behave.
Read MoreHelpful books, articles and other resources
A sample of excellent books and articles about native plant garden design.
Read MoreNature’s Echo: Rediscovering Human Identity through Native Gardening
The deep, intrinsic connection with the natural world, once the bedrock of human existence, has been eroded by the pursuit of progress and convenience. This disconnection has not just scarred our planet; it has left an indelible mark on our very sense of self. Amidst this backdrop of alienation, native gardening emerges not just as a horticultural practice, but as a beacon of hope, a pathway to rediscover our true identity and reclaim our place in the natural world.
Read MoreConnecting Nature: Building Wildlife Corridors with Urban Native Gardens
In the heart of urban landscapes, where concrete often overshadows greenery, wildlife corridors serve as critical lifelines. These green passages, created through thoughtful planting of native gardens, provide a refuge for urban wildlife, connecting isolated natural habitats.
Read MoreNative Gardens: Your Personal Contribution to Fighting Biodiversity Loss
In the face of climate change and biodiversity loss, feelings of helplessness are common. Yet, there is a powerful tool within our reach to combat these global challenges: native plant gardening. This practice not only offers environmental benefits but also empowers individuals to make a tangible difference.
Read MorePlugs: The Goldilocks solution to plant sizes
In the world of gardening, particularly when it comes to cultivating native plant gardens, the choice between starting with seeds, plugs, or larger plants can significantly impact the garden’s development and sustainability. Among these options, plugs often emerge as the ‘Goldilocks solution’ – not too big, not too small, but just right for creating dense, thriving native plant landscapes.
Read MoreGarden Growth: Understanding the Stages from Year One and Beyond
Embarking on the journey of creating a naturalized, native plant garden is a venture into the dynamic world of nature’s rhythms and cycles. Unlike traditional gardens that often demand immediate results, a native garden unfolds its beauty gradually, revealing its full splendor over time.
Read MoreA Garden for All Seasons: Designing with Native Plants
A garden that evolves and adapts through the seasons not only offers an ever-changing tapestry of beauty but also provides a sustainable habitat for local wildlife.
Read MoreEmbracing Nature’s Edge: The Importance of Naturalizing Shorelines in Haliburton County
In the landscape of Haliburton County, where lakes and water bodies form a picturesque backdrop, the naturalization of shorelines stands out as a pivotal practice for cottagers. Natural shorelines, adorned with native vegetation and undisturbed habitats, are not just visually appealing but also vital for maintaining the ecological integrity of these aquatic ecosystems.
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