One good thing that has come out of the pandemic is that many more people have discovered gardening after being forced to slow down and stay home.
As a result, we are increasingly aware of our homes’ surroundings and that our yards are more than a patch of grass that needs incessant mowing. Our pesticide -free yards can also become wildlife habitats with the following four provisions:
1. Food
– plants and flowers for pollinators – berries and seeds for birds to eat
– insects for lizards, frogs, birds and larger insects
2. Water at different access levels for all creatures
3. Cover for shelter and places for animals to raise their young: shrubs, trees, rocks, logs, leaves, and mulch
4. Sustainable practices including plants suitable for your weather, soil, sun exposure, and temperatures
You will reap the joy of watching your own personal wildlife park come to life right outside your door. Even balconies and patios can become miniature wildlife habitats!
Are you ready to have your own wild kingdom?
My backyard, a sanctuary, a prayer
Cardinals, chickadees, wrens and finches
Gently gliding, artfully carving out space
The cat poses languidly against the winding paths
Except for the careening dragonflies, so peaceful, so still, so precious
I stop and listen to the wren’s trill, the hummingbird’s buzz
Meditating on home, place, family
I’m transported
Back to another garden, another home
Where I left my heart