By Kristine Johnson While many members of Wild Ones Front Range are totally on the DIY (do it yourself) bandwagon–for various reasons or for various portions of our space–we may also reach out for help from professionals. Native plant landscaping can feel daunting. So how do you find someone who is a good fit for […] Continue reading "Questions to Ask a Native Plant Landscaper"
Many Colorado Native Plants boast similar attributes to common landscape plants but with better ecological benefits. Continue reading "Toolkit Highlight: Plant this, Not That"
By Karen Vanderwall and Kristine Johnson I know, just the thought of planting a juniper (Juniperus scopulorum) on purpose in or near your garden of all places seems unlikely–or at least way down on the list of interesting plants you’re “pining” for. But you may want to give the humble native juniper some consideration. Juniperus […] Continue reading "Plant Spotlight: Rocky Mountain Juniper"
(Or at least help, a lot) By Kristine Johnson The Wild Ones mission statement focuses on native plants for healthy ecosystems, and the Front Range Chapter speaks to landscaping for a climate-resilient future. Why is this important, and what can sound gardening techniques anchored on native plants provide beyond this? Many people know that we […] Continue reading "Your Landscape Actions Can Actually Save the Planet!"
Review by Pam Sherman Our native plant gardens are more than habitat for insects, birds and mammals. They are also calming and nurturing spaces for humans. As we grow in our understanding of native garden design, it is inevitable that we will move toward habitat that considers the five elements in harmony with the human […] Continue reading "Book Review: Zen Garden Design Concepts for Native Gardens"
By Deb Lebow Aal As we approach the winter solstice, I am taking time to pull back, pull inside, reorganize, and yes, already think about my landscape for next year. We gardeners don’t only find solace and joy in working in our gardens, but planning them as well, and as a respite from the tumult […] Continue reading "A Colorado Pocket Prairie"
Compiled by Deborah Lebow Aal Bugs are in trouble, and our yards, both the plants we put in and the way we garden, can be part of the solution. The Xerces Society had an article I particularly liked on using your landscape to make a difference to bugs by adding microhabitats. I am summarizing and […] Continue reading "Adding Microhabitats to Your Landscape"
Compiled by Karen Vanderwall This month we thought we would update something we’ve done before and ask our Chapter Board of Directors for nuggets of wisdom from their experience planting natives in their own landscapes—passing on tips, and tricks that will help you establish and enjoy your native garden in the diverse and complex climate […] Continue reading "Tips and Tricks for Gardening with Native Plants on the Front Range"
By Deb Lebow Aal Jonathan Sciarcon in his article “Consider Rewilding Your Yard with Aggressive Native Plants” has made a great case for strategically placing what he calls aggressive native plants, and what I call garden thugs, in your yard. I heartily agree with his arguments and have a few more to add to the […] Continue reading "Garden Thugs"
By Jonathan Sciarcon Based on online posts in the Colorado Native Plant Gardening room on Facebook and in-person conversations with Wild Ones members, it appears that most gardeners, even ones who advocate planting native plants, want well behaved flora in their yards or gardens. This makes sense as many gardeners’ aesthetic preferences tend towards some […] Continue reading "Consider Rewilding Your Yard With Aggressive Native Plants"