Can I keep the exotic/conventional plants I love?
Of course. It’s your land, and you get the final say on every detail. There’s nothing wrong with most ornamentals–I myself inherited a huge magnolia tree, peonies, and heirloom roses I have no plans to remove. But we will alert you to any invasives you have and make recommendations for replacing them.
The round overgrown shrub blocking the view of this client’s front door is the invasive Amur honeysuckle, which just made Michigan’s banned list. Without it, we would see a lovely maple tree. It’s also invading and harming local woods. Native low-bush blueberry (Vaccinium angustifolium) and bearberry (Arctostaphylos uva-ursi) would be charming there and create a better sightline.
Will you work within my HOA’s restrictions?
Certainly. There are many short natives to choose from and ornamental natives with full ecological benefits. The strictest parameters can inspire the greatest creativity, as poets know. If blending in is required and desired, we can do it. If standing out is what you want, we can help you shine without fines. We welcome challenges.
Will my gardens eventually get out of control?
No. We will work with you to install a design you can handle. It will be tailored to your desires, lifestyle, and abilities. Each of our designs keeps “plant sociability” at the forefront of the design process. Plant sociability ranges from non-sociable, which means the plant stays put and does not, or barely, reproduces, to highly sociable, which means spreading that outcompetes companions. We can choose non-sociable plants for your design or find ways to restrict the movement of more sociable plants. Sometimes, a client may find a sociable native is worth the work or want extras for giving away or bouquet cutting. They save clients money because less plugs are needed. We will find out what you want and deliver it.
Will my flowers end up also in my neighbors’ beds?
Maybe! Your neighbors should be so lucky. Hopefully they will appreciate it.
Will I need to fertilize, spread manure, or install sprinklers?
No! As our tagline indicates, we work with nature, not against it, to save you time, money, and effort. It’s not a painting, but interventions should be minimal.
Will I need to weed?
Yes. Some weeding will be required the first three years. As the plants fill in, they will outcompete weeds. Mature gardens repel weeds.
I have horrible soil. Will I need to have it replaced?
In most cases, difficult soil, like hard clay, just needs the right plant selection. Native taproots are great at breaking up clay. We might add a little compost or wood chips at installation. However, if your soil is contaminated and you want to grow food, then it will need to be made safe. We would have it tested and go from there.
Can you design a traditional landscape to fit the architectural style of my house with native plants?
Yes! So many of our native plants have been featured in landscape designs for hundreds of years. It’s easy to replicate the look of old-fashioned gardens with heirloom natives. Some styles, like arts & crafts, Tutor, and English cottage, lend themselves well. Others, like Greek Revivals, French Provincial, and Art Deco, require more thought. Midcentury modern ranches and Victorian houses didn’t originally use many native plants, but we can easily strike the same effect. If you want a garden that has no historical connection to the style of your house, that’s also fine by us!