Site Information: GT’s habitat in West Portland Park has part sun and shady conditions
What inspired you to enroll in the Backyard Habitat Certification Program?
Gardener for the first time and starting a (large) yard from scratch, native seems a good idea, and BHCP provides good resources.
How would you describe your habitat?
Curated wildness.
What are your top three favorite native plants and why do you love them?
I had my favorites, like lady fern, cascara, etc., but I really am starting to love them all!
What changes have you observed as a result of creating habitat?
I learned to be friend with time during three years of planting. Year 1 I was not sure what I am doing and just keep planting things and don’t see much changes. And at year three, most plants have acknowledged their new home and start to really taking off. Of course native plants are especially happy here. Knowing the result of what I have done is critical to envision what and where to plant in the future, and I can really see a dream garden on its way.
What were the two most significant challenges you encountered while creating habitat, and how did you address them?
Weeds for sure. Very daunting.
