9 Comments

Such a timely article for us. On our flower farm we're trying to do at least a portion of it with natives. We're lucky in that plants like joe pye, dogwood and several types of monarda are native for us. Plus we're using cultivars of natives - like some of the smooth hydrangeas - that have performed well in Mt Cuba Center's trials etc. But there's no getting away from non natives like peonies, delphiniums etc. It's not "pure" maybe but i like to think it's contributing to the ecosystem nonetheless.

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Exactly my approach-do the right thing plus a little bit more...

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I’m of a similar mind, we always include natives in our work but strive to build novel ecosystems that are functional and beautiful. This includes cultivars and plants from other areas, it’s more about seeking plants that are best adapted to the conditions present. Plus, in Vancouver, Canada, our native ecosystem is temperate rainforest, something that simply cannot be fully recreated in an urban area. Great post 💚🙌🏽

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So true! Hard to recreate - its a contrivance I admit...but the intention is praise worthy! Thanks for your insightful comment.

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‘Rewilding is a spectrum’. A phrase that I heard a little while ago, that lives in the back of my mind. Every little bit adds to the greater good and it’s all about good intentions!

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So well said- and eloquent. Bravo!

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Always a considered post. ❤️

Like these words: “consistent horticultural intervention.”

“Brunette snakeroot” would be a good password.

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That made me laugh!

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May 5, 2023
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I wet to UH Manoa- I studied native plants there. They are so remarkable!! Thanks for commenting from Hawaii.

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