Making the move to plant natives only. The mature trees and shrubs that we have (Andromeda, Ilex, Sassafras, Oak, Liriodendron, Cornus) are surrounding the property and are interspersed throughout the yard. We also have several wood piles and twig piles that we keep for bugs and insects. This year we are going to construct some home-made bee boxes and open some new ground for those that want to use it. We have ground nesting bees every year at one end of our yard, but want to open some other areas to see what will happen. We research plants now, even natives ,before we buy. And we don't use the plants that the big box stores carry anymore. We are attempting to grow more of our own plants from seeds and cuttings.
Which garden or space are you describing?:
How large is your yard?:
1.50
acres
Are there areas with sandy loamy soil?:
Yes
Are there low traffic areas where the soil is not turned over, tilled or plowed?:
Yes
Are there areas dead wood, brush piles or snags present?:
Yes
Are there areas with pithy twigs (elderberry, cane fruit, sumac, etc…)?:
Yes
Do you have native bunchgrasses?:
Several areas or one large area.
Are the flowering plants that you have pollinator friendly?:
Most (more than 75%)
How many flowers in your garden bloom in fall?:
10 or more
How many flowers in your garden bloom in summer?:
10 or more
How much mulch is on the ground?:
Some.
Is there fresh, clean water always available with a perch that bees could stand on and drink?:
Yes
Does the garden use herbicides?:
No.
Are pesticides used in the garden?:
No