By 1808Delaware
According to the Delaware County Master Gardener Association, Teri and Randy Litchfield, proud owners of a beautiful native garden in Delaware, are opening their doors to the public for a garden tour.
Their labor of love has not only transformed their backyard into a vibrant ecosystem but has also earned them recognition in the Ohio Magazine’s March/April edition. The article, titled “How to Plant a Native Ohio Garden“, provides an in-depth look into their journey and the biodiversity they have nurtured.
A Living Landscape
The magazine article shares that Litchfields’ garden is a testament to their dedication and passion for native plants. Once a barren landscape, their 1.3-acre property is now a thriving habitat for native perennials, shrubs, trees, and vines. The garden is a haven for wildlife, attracting a variety of insects, including 17 bee species, 13 wasps and hornets, 37 adult moths and butterflies, 18 caterpillar species, and many more.
A Growing Movement
The Litchfields are part of a growing movement of homeowners who are forgoing traditional lawns in favor of naturalistic native gardens. These gardens not only enhance the beauty of their homes but also contribute to biodiversity. The Litchfields’ garden is a perfect example of this, with its array of native plants that support a wide range of wildlife.
The Garden Tour
The Litchfields will be hosting a garden tour on Saturday, July 8, from 9am to 4pm, at their residence at 707 Bunty Station Road, Delaware. The tour is open to the public, and visitors are encouraged to carpool due to limited parking. This is a unique opportunity to witness the beauty and diversity of a native Ohio garden and to learn from the Litchfields’ experience.
A Labor of Love
The Litchfields’ journey began 20 years ago with a series of raised beds filled with flowering prairie plants and grasses. Over the years, they expanded their garden, removing invasive species and creating pocket gardens in various parts of their property. Their dedication to native gardening has not only transformed their backyard but has also inspired others to embrace native plants.
A Commitment to Education
In addition to hosting garden tours, the Litchfields are committed to educating others about native plants. Teri teaches workshops on gardening with native plants, while Randy, a theology professor, speaks about attentiveness in the garden. They also contribute to scientific research by documenting the biodiversity in their garden and sharing their findings on the iNaturalist app.
Join the Litchfields on July 8 for a unique opportunity to explore their beautiful native garden and learn about the importance of biodiversity. This is an event not to be missed for gardening enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.
