If you take a walk around our beautiful library grounds, you will notice a variety of colorful native plants. Native plants provide so many benefits to our world. Once they are established, native plants require much less water, pruning and fertilizer, which saves time and money. They offer important food and shelter for native insects, birds and butterflies, which increases biodiversity. They have deep root systems which reduce runoff, prevent erosion, and boost soil health. Natives are more resistant to drought and flooding. Native plants have developed a natural defense against pests and diseases, reducing the need for chemicals. In addition, they are really beautiful.
Learning how to take care of native plants and recognize them as they are growing requires some learning. This summer, we are offering two programs to help you as you cultivate native plants. On Wednesday, June 3rd at 5:00 pm, we are excited to have a Native Plant Book Talk. Wild Ones of South Bend is excited to announce the publication of their new book, Native Plants for Michiana: Planting with Nature and Beauty in Mind. Steve Sass and Ann Garvey, volunteer contributors to the book, will be there to explain how to use this wonderful book with pictures, names, when and where to plant various natives and how to create your own native landscape right where you live to help support the wildlife around you. This easy-to-use reference book on native plants for Michiana gardens is a colorful and helpful guide to help you get started with native plants in your own yard. The first 50 people at the program will receive a free copy of the book. Books will also be for sale at the program and sell for $8.00 or a Box of 50 for $300. All proceeds go to the local Wild Ones chapter.
On Monday, July 13th at 10:30 am, we will be having a Native Plant Garden Stroll led by Steve Sass. Enjoy a morning stroll around the library gardens as you learn about a select group of native plants. This program will include information on how to identify the plants, how & when to plant and care for them, and a scavenger hunt around the grounds for those plants, along with a handout with pictures for attendees. So bring a hat and slather on some sunscreen as you enjoy a delightful morning stroll around the library grounds, learning about our beautiful and beneficial native plants.
Make this the summer of native plants, as you are armed with the tools you need for your planting journey.