GARDENS
On a visit to Six Nations of the Grand River, I stopped by a native-plant nursery on the reservation. I learned about the ecological and cultural importance of our native flora. This trip was inspiring; it encouraged me to choose native plants for my yard. I have convinced family and friends across Turtle Island to do the same.
Annadel Garden, Santa Rosa, California
When the ground is frozen in Toronto, what is a gardener to do? Fortunately my in-laws in Santa Rosa, California have allowed me to garden around their home. Their garden features a large oak tree, where native bunch grasses and perennials grow freely.
Woodrow Garden (a work in progress), Toronto, Ontario
This garden features a sunken dinning area where guests will find themselves at flower level, meaning they’ll be able to readily appreciate what’s growing in the backyard!
The hardscaping and planting will be completed in 2019.
The plugs you see in this galley contain rare or hard to find plants from the Carolinian forest zone. Difficulty in sourcing some species can be seen as an opportunity. What horticultural enthousiast doesn’t like growing plants from seed?
Burdock Garden, Toronto, Ontario
Gardening in the Carolinian forest zone is a pure joy. So many incredible plant species thrive here. Eastern Flowering Dogwood, Spicebush and Pawpaw can be found in this garden. Under the shade of the spruce and hemlocks, I’ve also planted some Rhododendrons, Azaleas and Coral Bells for some early spring interest. Newly planted bee balm, with its bright-red flowers have attracted hummingbirds and monarch butterflies within weeks of being planted! The home owners are looking forward to seeing these pollinators more often next year.
Beach United Church’s Garden, Toronto, Ontario
Gardening at Beach United Church has been a rewarding experience. The garden has special meaning since each plant was donated by a member.
The church’s volunteer group has begun documented the stories behind each plant with the goal of putting together a booklet, so the stories will never be forgotten.
Smithville Garden, Niagara, Ontario
This is the project I’m looking forward to the most in 2019. It’s a 7-acre property near Smithville, Ontario. Much of the land will be reforested using grants offered by the local conservation authority. Formal plantings comprising largely of native plants are planned for around the house. Stay tuned for progress.
