Deb's Native Garden

About

My garden is our sanctuary; my husband calls it our Garden of Eden. I specialize in native plants, so we delight in the life that the garden sustains. A visit to our garden may introduce you to a plant you’ve never seen before and will show what an ordinary gardener can do in a small space to create a habitat for pollinators and birds.

When I moved here 26 years ago, I found striking infrastructure—a brick patio and rock ledges—that was mostly hidden by English ivy. My parents taught me about wildflowers, so I knew I wanted to feature native plants, plants that are indigenous and nurture the web of life.

As I learned more about the biodiversity crisis, I became more committed to replacing non-natives with natives. Out came the English ivy, hosta, and even the Japanese maple, beautiful as it was. My garden now has about 150 species of natives (including a small rain garden) that bloom from late March until November.

Beginning with spring ephemerals, our sequence of blooms nurtures wildlife and provides evolving beauty for us humans. What a thrill to watch the monarchs lay eggs on milkweed or hummingbirds sip from cardinal flowers!

I appreciate that native plants are “easy”— they do not require fertilizer, coddling, or even watering after the first year. They thrive without pesticides or herbicides. Another ecological practice we follow is “leaving the leaves,” which enriches the soil, mulches the plants, and provides cozy winter homes for butterflies and fireflies.

I feel so much awe and gratitude to Mother Earth for the beauty of the spring flowers, as they awaken. I am delighted to share them with you!

This garden’s estimated size is 2,000 sq. ft.

2026 Open Day:  Saturday, May 9

Hours: 10a.m. - 4p.m.