Halifax Diverse Naturalizes Your Yard

Do you know the impact that gardening with native plants can have on local wildlife? Bill Freedman does! As a professor of ecology and long-time practitioner of the principles of naturalization, he wants to spread the word about the benefits of using native plants in your garden. Walking his own talk, Dr. Freedman naturalized his own yard years ago, curating a collection of native plants where a lawn once dwelled, now home to a vibrant collection of greenery, exploding with colour throughout the various growing seasons.  Living next to the DalPlex on South Street, his house has garnered plenty of attention over the years. Now, in keeping with the 100 in 1 day event, hosted by Evergreen, and Doors Open Halifax, he invites you to his garden to learn firsthand about the process, as well as the benefits to yourself, your wallet, and the environment. He will host an informal drop-in and will give explanations, as well as answer any questions participants might have.  To offer participants the opportunity to get started in their own gardens, representatives from the Harriet Irving Botanical Gardens will host a native plant sale on the same site, offering plenty of garden ready plants for between $2-5. "You shop local, eat local, support local, now it's time to garden local!" says Melanie Priesnitz, Conservation Horticulturist at the Harriet Irving Botanical Gardens. Plants for sale all support wildlife, including birds and butterflies, and those who make use of these species are guaranteed to see more photogenic visitors in their gardens! Dr. Freedman’s drop-in session will be from 10am-2pm on Saturday, June 7th, and the native plant sale will take place from 11am-2pm. Both events will proceed rain or shine at 6306 South Street, Halifax. For more information, contact Halifax Diverse at halifaxdiverse@gmail.com. Find us on facebook and like us to keep up with our events including monthly expert guided walks, tree plantings, and more. Find us on the 100 in 1 day page as well as a bunch of other great events that will be taking place on the same day. But come to ours for sure! See you in the garden! David FosterHalifax Diverse Coordinator