Pablo and his family set out to create a native yard two years ago. Initially cautious, they decided to jump in and make their yard native.
A New York Times article that mentioned Doug Tallamy stimulated Pablo’s interest in native plants. Tallamy has spoken and written frequently about native plants and gardening, especially how native plants support ecosystems. After learning from Tallamy, Pablo talked with his neighbors about native gardening; and he learned about and later joined FONTT.
Having just moved to the neighborhood, Pablo and his family found their yard full of invasive plants: Japanese honeysuckle, winter creeper, wisteria, and English ivy. The first order of business was to clear out these invasives and cover the bare earth with wood chips.
Pablo then began adding native trees: white oak, eastern white cedar, white pine, and river birch. Using plugs the family added wild bergamot, black-eyed Susans and various goldenrods to the mix.
He advises gardeners to just get started and let your garden evolve—don’t paralyze yourself with planning. Yes, keep in mind the sun and soil need of your plants, but don’t be afraid to take risks that can unearth some pleasant surprises. After Pablo and his family removed invasives some lovely volunteers—oak, willow, elm, and tulip tree seedlings—filled the voids.
Pablo also says not to forget that neighbors are a great resource! Pushing a wheelbarrow around the neighborhood is a great way to meet people. You can also get free native plants by checking the Takoma Park Horticultural Club and PEN list serves.
Some of Pablo’s plants include
Trees: river birch & white oak—Betula nigra & Quercus alba
Herb: narrow-leaved mountain mint—Pycnanthemum tenuifolium
–Sharon Broderick
Friends of Native Trees in Takoma 