Pictured above is a second year spring flowering Caltha palustris Marsh Marigold,
it is in one of our 'Wild Walk' gardens, very pretty!
Plan for a Successful Planting!
Site Prep is Important
If soil testing is needed, have it done as soon as the ground is workable. If amendments to your dirt are needed, you can make them and give the planting area time to settle before installation.
Know Your Plants
It is important to know as much as possible about the species you are considering. Some plants may be good in a truly balanced native setting, but might take over and be invasive in a watered and tended garden setting or in a wild setting that is not a balanced community.
There are differences within species which can make a significant impact on your gardening success. Example - the Asclepias, also known as a Butterfly Weed plant. There are several types - two are more commonly found.
The Asclepia tuberosa which is the orange flowered, prairie and drier soil type. This one will usually fare well in the average garden. For damp sites, such as wet meadows and rain gardens, the red flowered Asclepia incarnata is the plant to use. If you plant this one, be sure to keep it watered if the site is not naturally moist.
Both are very pretty and of course, and a great food source for butterflies! The buddleias (Butterfly bush) that are often planted to attract butterflies do not give natural protection against predators as these native asclepias do. What would you rather be planting and feeding the butterflies that visit? Plant smart!
Livingston Co. Ext. Master Gardener Articles by Mary T.
Contact Information:
Wild Walk Gardens LLC
PO Box #2087, Howell MI. 48844
2008 - Celebrating 27 Years in Livingston County!
Livingston Co. Ext. Advanced Master Gardener Info & Project by Mary T.
Notice: We are no longer holding classes through the Howell Recreation Department.
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