Featured Garden: Sullivan County Natives
An Organic Garden in New York
In upstate New York, Sullivan County Natives is an organic backyard garden with a great variety of native plants and heirloom vegetables. Laura is an adventurous gardener who loves digging in her "small patch of paradise."
How did you become a gardener?
I am inspired by the beauty of the native landscape, as well as by a wonderful local organic farm and a nursery that specializes in rare varieties of heirloom vegetables and medicinal herbs.
I became a gardener when I acquired a small weekend cottage in upstate New York. I morphed into a more adventurous and accomplished one when I took up residence in the country full-time.
What is your favorite plant?
I simply can't play favorites! From my thriving yellow dogwood to my patch of lemon balm to the many varieties of scented geraniums that entice me with their distinctive fragrances, I am in love with all my plants.
What's a favorite feature of your garden?
I like the different ecosystems that exist on my small patch of paradise: a sunny bed that's ideal for tomatoes; a shady area under my river birch where ferns, hellebores and wild ginger flourish; a rockier bed with an Alpine garden full of pockets for succulents.
What's your greatest challenge in gardening?
My greatest challenges are the same as my best advice – having patience, going with the flow and planning ahead!
What's your best tip for new gardeners?
Go with the flow. Have patience – and plan ahead!
- Categories // : Featured Gardens, January 2011
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