Did you know fall is a great month to plant a native garden? I spoke with Melinda Baker, program coordinator at The Habitat Connection and Plant the Seed educator, to get her recommendations and tips. Plus, where to buy native plants!
This interview has been edited for length and clarity.
Why Plant Native
“Native plants, insects, birds, and other fauna co-evolved together over millions of years. Their interdependent relationships foster the biodiversity that stabilizes our ecosystems and food systems. Because of habitat loss, we’re rapidly losing native plant and animal populations, which in turn is diminishing the health of our ecosystems overall.
“Nashville and the wider Middle TN area are being devoured by unsustainable development. With that comes pavement, herbicides and pesticides, manicured turf-grass lawns, and mostly nonnative ornamental plants. These things degrade our ecosystems and food webs, not only creating food deserts for insects and other wildlife, but straining human food systems and health. It’s an unsustainable paradigm.
“Thankfully, there are paths to restoration and coexistence with nature, if we choose to take them. Planting native can regenerate lost habitat and biodiversity, especially if we all do it. If we approach our yards like land stewards, we have the power to make a profound difference in the biodiversity crisis, especially at the local level.”
Butterflies love native Helianthus augustifolius sunflowers. (Melinda Baker / Habitat Connection & Plant the Seed)
Fall Garden Planning
“Fall plantings have a better survival rate in Middle TN, so it’s the best season to plant. My plant lists are a combination of natives I find attractive or interesting and those that serve an important purpose in our ecosystem. Spoiler alert: All native plants serve an important purpose.
“It’s essential that a native habitat provides food and host plants year-round. As you plan, think about what new species you want to add to enhance the landscape visually and ecologically. I’m always very excited to watch my fall bloomers show out — the native asters, goldenrods, sunflowers, and salvias. They’re all so beautiful while being among the heaviest hitters ecologically. Insects, birds, and other wildlife are still very active in the fall, and many folks forget how important native fall wildflowers are.
“If you’re new to native habitat gardening, native plant sales are a great place to start your journey. There are lots of species to choose from, and plenty of folks around to answer questions. For more comprehensive help, you can also reach out to us at The Habitat Connection for a fun, two-hour session about how to regenerate native habitat on your property. Plant recommendations included!”
Where to Find Native Plants
- Wild Ones Middle TN Fall Native Plant Sale. Order Oct. 14-21, pick up on Oct. 24 at Owl's Hill Nature Sanctuary.
- Wonder Gift and Garden in Kingston Springs
- GroWild in Fairview
- Nashville Public Library’s Seed Exchange
