Many
of us are looking inward in 2016, reflecting on our motivations, actions and
responsibilities to others. These are
important steps; somehow, we must work together to solve the challenges of our interconnected
world. Harmony, cooperation, thoughtfulness and
positive actions are needed in times like this.
Times
of change also remind us of our sacred role as land stewards. Urban dwellers sometimes forget they are part
of larger ecosystems. But our actions –
good or bad - effect the lives of many species, in addition to our own.
We’ve
recently been reminded of the importance of gardens in times of drought. The signs of S. California’s worst recorded
drought are all around, in brown lawns and sick/dying street trees. The effects are even more dramatic in the
wildlands - and it’s not just the plants that are suffering.
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| Sand wasp on Red Buckwheat |
Even
some ‘common’ native butterflies and other insects are just not out there in the wild this year. Drought means no water
and no food. And so these creatures flock to our gardens, desperate for a meal
and a drink. Gardens are a sanctuary for
many creatures this year.
It’s
no surprise that naturalists have noted increased numbers of birds and insects
in gardens this summer. These observations are supported by data from recent
bird and butterfly counts. Our gardens are truly a haven of last resort in
times of drought.
Climate
change forces us to rethink our gardens. In addition to choosing plants that can
survive, we should consider those that provide something extra. That ‘something extra’ can be a sweet aroma,
food or flavorings for the table, herbal medicines or habitat for native
creatures. Fortunately, many California
native plants provide many ‘extras’ (in addition to being drought tolerant). Gardens that include native plants simply offer
more benefits.
Whether
just a few pots on a balcony – or a plot of several acres – your garden can be
a place of refuge for plants, humans, other animals, insects and others. You have the luxury of providing a little bit
of water – even if the amount is restricted.
And that makes all the difference, in times of drought.
Creating
refuge is not difficult – all it takes a bit of thought and planning. The preparations can be fun and interesting
for the entire family. Learn about local
native birds, butterflies and pollinators.
What do they need in order to live in your garden? How can you provide it? Visit a local nature
center or botanic garden and ask questions.
Consult books at your public library and the many good resources on the
internet. Here are a few to get you
started:
- Butterfly gardening: http://mother-natures-backyard.blogspot.com/2012/06/butterfly-gardens.html
- Providing Pollinator Habitat: http://mother-natures-backyard.blogspot.com/2013/06/life-friendly-gardening-planning-for.html
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| Gray Hairstreak on Dune buckwheat (Eriogonum parvifolium) |
So
let this be a year of introspection – but also a year for positive action. Resolve to make a difference in the community
where you live; and don’t just limit your vision to the human species. Learn more about the ecosystem in which you
live. And don’t be surprised to discover
new meaning and direction along the way.
Get
out, start thinking, get going; the time for action is now. A bit of mindfulness can transform each of us into
agents of positive change. And the
cumulative effects of positive actions, no matter how small, can truly make a
difference in challenging times like this.
_____________
For more ideas
on sustainable living see:
- Selecting drought-tolerant trees & shrubs: http://mother-natures-backyard.blogspot.com/2015/09/sustainable-gardening-trees-for.html
- Life-friendly fall pruning: http://mother-natures-backyard.blogspot.com/2014/11/maintaining-your-new-california-garden_15.html
- Designing Your New California Garden series: http://mother-natures-backyard.blogspot.com/2013/07/designing-your-new-california-garden-1.html
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| Summer garden - Mother Nature's Backyard, Gardena CA |
We
welcome your comments (below). You can
also send your questions to: mothernaturesbackyard10@gmail.com
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