post and photos by Donna Short, Chapter member and volunteer
Home of Jeff Blunt
Jeff became interested in native plants when he realized they resulted in more bird activity, insects and pollinators. During 2000 he began including native plants in his garden which is in an urban area south of Tower Grove Park. Jeff kicked off the garden tour with some of what he has learned.
Here are some of his thoughts and experiences:
- Think of the landscape as rooms based on the light and soil conditions and use this to determine what to plant with the goal of reducing maintenance and enhancing plant health. For example, in a dry area he focuses on glade plants. Below glade plants such as Cliff Goldenrod (Solidago drummondii) surround the entry steps.
- Also, on display is Jeff’s Bring Conservation Home Platinum award
- Jeff changed his outlook on gardening from developing a pristine garden to an area with life!
- His experience with “navitars” was unsuccessful when he discovered they were not as attractive to birds and pollinators. Since then Jeff has been focusing on the “keystone” plants. Visit the NWF website for more information about keystone plants
- Jeff avoids mulching and instead relies on Wild Violets (Viola sororia).
As we moved toward the backyard along the east side of the house we spotted Smooth Asters (Symphyotrichum leave) in bloom (left) and Clammy Weed (Polanisia dodecandra) (on the right)
The rain garden begins in the yard (left) and extends around the east side of the house.
Extension of the rain garden featuring Cardinal Flower (Lobelia cardinalis) in bloom (right).
The patio which previously flooded was replaced with permeable bricks on a layer of rock. Flooding was eliminated by native plants!
Walking through the garden…
Jewelweed (Impatiens capensis)
Thread-leaved Bluestar (Amsonia ciliata)
Lead Plant (Amorpha canescens)
Garden Phlox (Phlox paniculata)
There are trees and shrubs throughout the yard. Shown left with berries, a Carolina Buckthorn (Rhamnus caroliniana).
One of the highlights of the yard is the pond.
Thanks to Jeff (on the right) who had a very busy day answering our questions and shared some great information! Certifications include Bring Conservation Home Platinum, NWF Wildlife Habitat, and Monarch Waystation and Jeff also participates in the Shutterbee program. Since 1995 Jeff has identified 130 species of birds, including flyovers.
