Jessica Thompson, owner of Recreative Natives, a native plant nursery, discusses landscaping with native plants, tree planting, rare oak discovery, ecological benefits of short-line gardens and resilience of native plants, importance of gardening experimentation and role of native plants, landscaping with native plants in front yards, challenges and benefits of gardening with native plants.
Finding a wide variety of native plant species can be challenging at traditional nurseries, highlighting the importance of supporting local native plant nurseries.
Growing native plants requires patience as they may take years to reach desired size, but local native plant nurseries offer expertise and a wider selection.
Using native plants for erosion control is highly effective and creates a natural and sustainable landscape, bringing people from different backgrounds together in their passion for native plants.
Deep dives
Challenges of finding native plants
One of the biggest hurdles in using native plants is finding them. Many nurseries do not carry a wide variety of native species, making it difficult to source the plants. This often leads to compromises and difficulties in obtaining the desired plants for landscaping projects.
Patience in growing natives
Growing native plants requires patience and a willingness to wait for plants to mature. Natives are not readily available in large sizes, and nurseries often only offer small plants or bare-root options. This means that the plants may take several years before they reach the desired size and appearance.
Supporting local native plant nurseries
One solution to the challenges of finding native plants is to support local native plant nurseries. These nurseries specialize in growing and selling native species, offering a wider selection and expertise in local plant species. Although availability may still vary, native plant nurseries provide a valuable resource for those wanting to incorporate native plants into their landscapes.
The Importance of Native Plants for Erosion Control
One of the main ideas discussed in the podcast is the significance of using native plants for erosion control. The speaker shares their own experience in dealing with erosion and mentions the use of native shrubs like yellow root to address the problem. They emphasize the effectiveness of native plants in preventing soil erosion, mentioning examples of how native plants can be found growing naturally on stream banks, helping to stabilize them. The speaker highlights the benefits of using native plants in solving erosion issues and creating a natural and sustainable landscape.
Connecting Different Backgrounds Through a Passion for Native Plants
Another key point explored in the podcast is the idea that a passion for native plants can bring people from different backgrounds together. The speakers discuss their own diverse backgrounds, one coming from a background in wildlife and hunting, while the other has a background in landscaping and horticulture. Despite their different paths, they both share a common enthusiasm for native plants and their potential impact on wildlife and ecosystems. They express the belief that interest in native plants should transcend stereotypes and encourage individuals from various fields and interests, such as hunters, gardeners, and birders, to explore the world of native plants and contribute to positive changes in their landscapes.
Kyle and Jake sit down with Jessica Thompson, owner of Recreative Natives, a native plant nursery located in Cropwell, Alabama. Jessica is an experienced landscape designer who has a passion for native plants! While overlooking beautiful Logan Martin Lake, Kyle and Jake talk with Jessica about everything from landscape design to bass fishing. Buckle up - this is going to be a good one!
