Prem Barton, our host for the July gatherings
On July 11 and 14, Prem Barton opened her 1.3 acre yard for Wild One members and guests. She began her amazing yard transformation in 2012-2013. Her first task was to cut down all the honeysuckle that had surrounded most of her property. As we walked around her beautiful yard, she was quick to share her ‘rules for success!’
She started by taking a Native Plant class out at Shaw Nature Reserve. Starting off slow, she planted natives in the area close to her back door, admittedly because she didn’t know how her neighbors would react to the changes she planned to make. With that success behind her, she moved to her front yard. As there were too many trees blocking out the sunlight, she made the choice to cut down two trees. This allowed her more versatility in creating sunny areas for native plants.
In this space she created several native beds and prairie patches. She started with seeds and then added the free plants she received at Wild Ones meetings. She also does not amend the soil.
Watering faithfully after the planting is also key to success. Prem also stressed patience with all her plants. Nothing happens fast, and you have to be willing to watch them grow! Her yard displays a vast array of native trees, bushes and plants, too many to name here!
Wednesday evening attendees
On Wednesday night 50 members, 2 children and 12 visitors enjoyed the tour. On Saturday morning, 23 members and 9 guests enjoyed the morning as well. If you weren’t one of these members or guests who attended, you really missed a real landscaping success story!
Saturday morning attendees
After the tour, our President, Marsha Gebhardt discussed upcoming events. She showed all the CIRCLE OF SUPPORT card. She reminded all to check the Dig In menu for volunteer opportunities. Dan Pearson was announced as the winner of the Landscape Challenge, more info to come on the planting date. Pat Wells won the drawing for a book on Garden Insects.
Look at all of the plants brought for sharing!
Many plants were available to share and Prem offered many the opportunity to dig up some of her hardy natives!
Recorded by: Ginny Johnson, Secretary
Photos by: Dawn Weber
