Jeff Linden with his new Conservation@Home sign. Photo: Mark Luthin
A Conservation@Home Story by Mark Luthin, President, NLI Board of Trustees
Expecting only to offer advice on how to incorporate native plants into an established yard, I went to Jeff Linden’s home in Rockford armed with a folder full of guidelines, helpful hints and growing requirements for native plants. After a lovely tour of his yard, we both realized that he already qualified for certification in NLI’s Conservation@Home program.
The western side of his yard had a number of mature red and white oaks, as well as a handful of walnuts. Jeff is already letting this portion of his property “go wild”, and we observed wild ginger, trillium and Virginia waterleaf still holding onto their greenness. Bluebells are already established, and a few wild geranium could be seen. Solomon’s seal was scattered throughout the property as well. Interestingly, with just a minimum amount of time, and by not mowing and trimming, the natives find a way of showing up. Jeff has had an erosion problem in this area, as either side of the oak yard is bordered by his driveway and a side street, both with steep slopes. He has seeded these areas with native plants, hoping that the deep roots will prevent further erosion. Jeff currently mows the bank along the street, and hopes to establish pollinator-friendly plantings there. We decided that starting small was the best choice due to cost and time constraints. Even a small area is beneficial to our wild friends, and the neighbors concerned with “weeds” will now be able to see the Conservation@Home sign and understand what Jeff is hoping to accomplish.
Behind the house, Jeff has a nice woodland border, creating a beautiful buffer between his house and his neighbor. Hawks, owls, turkeys and many other birds are frequently seen there. Bats are welcome, and often drink from his pool, which is not chlorinated. Even though most of the spring ephemerals are resting, I have no doubt that a walk through his woods would provide a bounty of spring wildflowers.
With time, effort and a little cash, rewilding a yard is fun and beneficial.
For information about NLI’s Conservation@Home, Work and School programs visit here.
Soloman’s Seal with berries under the stem.
A mature canopy of trees in Jeff’s yard.
Wild Ginger
All photos by Mark Luthin