When I sat down with Emily Gardner, a dedicated volunteer for Wild Ones, a non-profit organisation passionate about native plants and natural landscaping, I was immediately drawn into her world. Emily, with her bright eyes and an enthusiasm that was almost contagious, shared her experiences with the Wild Ones’ landscape planning programme, a remarkable initiative that has been transforming spaces into thriving ecosystems.
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Emily’s journey with Wild Ones began almost serendipitously. “I was always a nature enthusiast,” she told me, as we settled into a quiet corner of a bustling café. “But it wasn’t until I stumbled upon one of Wild Ones’ events that I realised I could combine that passion with something tangible—landscape planning.”
Wild Ones is well-known for its library of free resources, which includes detailed landscape plans. These plans illustrate the placement of trees, herbaceous plants, shrubs, and other materials, making it easier for individuals and communities to envision and create sustainable landscapes. “One of the most rewarding aspects of this programme,” Emily said, “is seeing how these plans empower people.”
She explained that the plans are designed with both novices and experienced gardeners in mind. “You don’t have to be a botanist to understand them. They’re accessible to everyone,” she noted, her voice filled with pride. Emily herself has seen countless people, from various walks of life, come together to learn and implement these plans in their own gardens and public spaces.
The process begins with understanding the land itself. “Every piece of land is unique,” Emily emphasised. “Wild Ones encourages people to observe their environment first. What kind of soil do you have? How does sunlight move across your space? Once you understand these elements, the plan becomes a sort of guide to help you make the best choices.”
Emily recounted a particular project that had a profound impact on her. “There was a small community park that was underutilised and somewhat neglected,” she began. “Using a landscape plan from the Wild Ones library, we were able to transform it into a vibrant area filled with native plants and trees. Now, it’s not just a park; it’s a habitat.”
The transformation was not just ecological but social as well. “Seeing people come together, getting their hands dirty, and planting native species was amazing,” Emily reflected. “It created a sense of community. People were proud of what they had built together.”
According to Emily, the benefits of using native plants are numerous. “They’re adapted to the local climate, so they require less water and maintenance,” she explained. “Plus, they provide essential habitats for local wildlife, including pollinators like bees and butterflies.”
One of the challenges, Emily admitted, is changing the perception of what a garden should look like. “People are used to manicured lawns and exotic plants,” she said. “But once they see the beauty and benefits of native plants, their minds—and gardens—often change.”
Wild Ones also places a strong emphasis on education. Emily highlighted the workshops and seminars they conduct, which are instrumental in spreading knowledge about native landscaping. “Education is key,” she asserted. “The more people know, the more empowered they feel to make changes.”
Our conversation took a reflective turn as Emily shared her hopes for the future. “I dream of a world where native plants are the norm rather than the exception,” she mused. “Imagine cities and towns filled with landscapes that are not only beautiful but also sustainable.”
As we wrapped up our discussion, Emily left me with a thought that lingered long after our meeting ended. “Landscaping with native plants is not just about aesthetics,” she said. “It’s about creating a legacy of sustainability and harmony with nature.”
In a world increasingly aware of environmental issues, the work of organisations like Wild Ones is not just commendable; it’s essential. Their landscape plans serve as a blueprint for change, illustrating how we can all contribute to a healthier planet.
Emily’s experience with Wild Ones is a testament to the power of collective effort and the profound impact that thoughtful landscape design can have on our environment. Her story is a reminder that with a little planning and a lot of passion, we can all be stewards of the natural world.
Fabrice Fèvre
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