Native Landscaping Plans
In the spring of 2022, I decided to try my hand at beekeeping. Through that process, I began to understand the importance of pollinators in our ecosystem. It also led me to studies on how much of an impact native plants can have - even in small yards! The Missouri Master Naturalist training solidified my commitment to using native plants in my designs. I continued my learning by working a season at a local native nursery. I currently design, install and maintain native landscaping for anyone looking to convert their "food desert" yards into ecologically beneficial spaces!
Converting Lawns to Habitat
Grandview Lawn Conversion
Year One
It's amazing what seven months of growth can do! After clearing the site, eight native species were added to attract pollinators, birds and beautify the space.
Maintenance
A few visits a year for weeding and editing are all that is needed to keep this garden managed.
Species Highlight
Rose Verbena (left) quickly filled in as a long-blooming ground cover. The white flowers of Yarrow (right) show up well in the evening light.
Species Highlight
Little Bluestem (left) adds structure and beautiful red fall color to the garden. Aromatic Aster (right) do wonders for attracting pollinators late into the fall season.
Smithville Yellow Flower Garden
Year One
This Smithville homeowner wanted to recreate a grandparent's all-yellow flower garden. We provided a design and site prep before they planted themselves - mission accomplished! Fifteen native species will do wonders in soaking up stormwater.
Species Highlight
Black-Eyed Susan (left) provide blooms for months while easily reseeding to ensure a full garden. Ox-Eye Sunflower (right) blooms all summer and can grow to 5' tall! This plant can be cut back in late spring if a shorter look is desired.
Species Highlight
Cliff Goldenrod (left) is a keystone species meaning it is crucial in supporting other native species in our ecosystem. Lanceleaf Coreopsis (right) loves dry, sunny spots in the garden.
Overland Park Pollinator Garden
Year Two
A failing locust tree and turf grass were removed prior to the planting of this pollinator garden. The fall shot on the right highlights aromatic aster - full of life late in the season.
Species Highlight
Dittany (left) is a favorite border plant and pollinator magnet. Butterfly Milkweed (right) is a host plant for monarch butterflies and brilliant orange lights up dry gardens.
Species Highlight
Aromatic Aster (left) can be planted as a hedge and blooms with Goldenrods in the fall. Bush's Poppy Mallow (right) spreads out to provide groundcover with lovely cup shaped flowers.
Species Highlight
Garden Phlox (left) can handle full sun as well as shadier, wet locations. Showy Goldenrod (right) is a keystone species and a must have in pollinator gardens! It's brilliant flowers will be covered in beneficial insects September-October.
Floyd Street Bed Creation
Year One
This homeowner's new driveway left a large drop-off and created some erosion problems. We used reclaimed natural stones to improve both issues and provide more planting space.
Year One
Sheet mulching with reclaimed cardboard boxes and free arborist chips will smother the existing vegetation this year. Stay tuned for planting photos next year!