Making Gardens
Visiting Nigel Dunnett’s Naturalistic Garden at The Barbican
I talked to a man who was doing some spring maintenance. He told me with a huge smile on his face that he loved the gardens, which were so much more interesting than the grass elsewhere, and whose lushness contrasted with the concreted brutalism of the Barbican.
Read MoreHelpful books, articles and other resources
A sample of excellent books and articles about native plant garden design.
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 MoreYour New Landscape: What to Expect in the Years to Come
Unlike traditional landscaping, natural gardening isn’t a one-time thing. Instead, it’s about dancing with nature, watching the garden mature year by year. Here’s what you can expect from a landscape installed by Grounded.
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.
Read MoreGarden Ecotones: Where Forest and Garden Meet in Haliburton
In the world of gardening, especially in forested regions like Haliburton County, the idea of creating garden ecotones offers a unique opportunity to blend the cultivated with the wild, enriching both the environment and our experience of it.
Read MoreA Different Kind of Beauty: Discovering Gardens in the Off-Season
As autumn’s vibrant palette fades and winter’s chill sets in, traditional gardeners often see this as a cue to ‘put the garden to bed.’ This usually involves tidying up, cutting back dead foliage, and preparing for a dormant season. However, native plant gardens challenge this conventional approach, revealing a different kind of beauty in the fall and winter months – one that is not only visually appealing but also ecologically significant.
Read MoreInspired by Nature, Crafted by Hands: The Essence of Native Gardens
Native plant gardens stand as testaments to the beauty and complexity of nature. These gardens offer a unique fusion of natural splendor and human artistry. Unlike their wild counterparts, native gardens are carefully crafted spaces, reflecting the delicate interplay between natural ecosystems and human intervention.
Read MoreExploring the Groundcover Layer: Native Grasses and Sedges in Haliburton Gardens
The secret to vibrant and ecologically balanced gardens often lies hidden in plain sight: within the groundcover layer. These unassuming plants play a pivotal role in the structure and sustainability of native plant gardens, providing an ecological foundation that supports biodiversity.
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