Paul

Designed By: Native Butterfly Flowers

Installed By: Native Butterfly Flowers

Started: Spring 2023 and ongoing

Percentage of Native Plants: 98%

Amount of Sun and Shade: Mostly sun

Unique Features and Wildlife: All plants were added to provide natural habitat for wildlife. Birds, bees, bunnies, butterflies, bats, opossum, squirrels, Florida tree frogs, moths and other pollinators, and one male gopher tortoise now reside or transit through here. Many plant species are host plants for caterpillars.

Landscape Description: I wanted the project to provide for birds, bees, butterflies, and bunnies. There are 4 different water sources, including two for animals which can’t fly or jump. The plants were chosen so as to provide food, forage, shelter, and places to raise young. And, as a bonus, they are pleasing to the eye.

Challenges: The backyard was a disaster after the lawnmower guy scalped the St. Augustine grass down to bare earth and killed it, but that was a plus! Removing the remaining weeds became the last obstacle, and weeding it continues to be a challenge. After the gopher tortoise showed up, I now have to keep an eye on my big dog to protect him from the tortoise. Rainwater washed away the underlying sand/soil from beneath my driveway, so the concrete cracked and crumbled as there was nothing supporting it. This afforded me the opportunity to install permeable pavers. Water soaks down into and between the pavers, which keeps at least some of it from running into the street and thence to the lagoon via the drainage canals.

Parking Restrictions: Please park on the street. The property is elevated with respect to the street so be prepared for light uphill climbing!