Episode 188: Wild Ones

In this episode, Tim and Jean sit down with Rosemary Mix, president of the Capital District chapter of Wild Ones. That's a national organization that was an outgrowth of Douglas Tallamy''s idea for a “Homegrown National Park” whereby individuals planted their gardens with native plants to make a network of pollinators and a healthier ecology nationwide. The idea became the “Wild Ones” organization in 1977 at a native landscape conference. There are now over 100 chapters in 36 states, with nineteen thousand members. The pandemic resulted in a huge boost in membership, and a lively website encouraged more growth.

The local group holds an annual plant sale at Thacher Park, a seed swap in November, and a series of educational programming via zoom all winter. Membership in the local group also offers “cozy chats”, informal gatherings to talk 'natives' during the winter, a speakers bureau, and meet and hike sessions. They are working on creating a demonstration garden at Guilderland Unity Lutheran Church. The planned design is posted on-line at the national website. There are many designs available on the website with guidance available, from lists of plant sources, designers, criteria for good design, and ideas beyond gardens. Planters, pots and other containers can serve to grow natives, and natives are not just annuals and perennials. There is advice on native trees and shrubs.

The website even discusses the differences of opinion between mere enthusiasts and “purists” who shun nativars, cultivars or even combining native and introduced plants. To visit an established native garden, Rosemary suggests contacting the Sobro Conservancy in Saratoga, which has rescued a vacant lot and made it a pleasant entry to the city.

Hosts: Tim Kennelty and Jean Thomas
Guest: Rosemary Mix
Photo by: Wild Ones
Production Assistance: Linda Aydlett, Deven Connolly, Teresa Golden, Tim Kennelty, Amy Meadow, Xandra Powers, Annie Scibienski, Jean Thomas