Embrace the Fall: Native Plant Sales and Sustainable Gardening in Sonoma County

As autumn settles in, a call of the trowel and shovel resonates across Sonoma County. Fall is more than just the season for crunchy leaves and cozy sweaters; it’s one of the best times for planting. With the soil still warm from summer, September through November provides a unique window where plants can establish their roots before winter arrives. And what better way to fill your garden than by incorporating California natives?

Upcoming Native Plant Sales

Hallberg Butterfly Gardens

The inspiration of the late Louise Hallberg lives on at her butterfly sanctuary, where the Hallberg family invites you to explore their plant sale this weekend, October 11-12. Running from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at 8687 Oak Grove Ave., Sebastopol, this sale features a curated selection of California native plants specifically chosen as host plants for butterflies. Appointments are required due to limited parking, so plan accordingly.

Fall hues blending seamlessly with nature

California Native Plant Society

If you’re on the hunt for diversity, the Milo Baker chapter of the California Native Plant Society has you covered. Their annual blowout sale will take place on Saturday from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the nursery shared with The Laguna Foundation, located at 9 Sanford Road, Santa Rosa. With around 150 varieties of California native plants, this event is an essential stop for any budding horticulturist.

Willowside School

Support education while enhancing your garden! Willowside School’s nursery offers an impressive array of bargain California natives at Hall and Willowside roads, Santa Rosa, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. on October 12. This nursery is not just about plants; it’s about nurturing the next generation of gardeners.

Valley of the Moon Garden Club

Not to be left behind, the Valley of the Moon Garden Club will showcase California natives alongside fall veggies, flowering succulents, and other ornamental plants. The sale runs from 9 a.m. to noon at Altimira Middle School, 17805 Arnold Drive, Sonoma.

The Case for California Natives

It’s tempting to think that an autumn garden makeover means starting from scratch, but that couldn’t be further from the truth. Transitioning your landscape to include California natives doesn’t require eliminating all that you have. Picture it more like redecorating a room—swapping out a few key pieces can completely refresh your space. Natives are perfectly adapted to California’s climate, providing habitat and nourishment for local wildlife.

For over 40 years, California Flora has been pioneering the integration of native plants into home landscapes. Their knowledge and resources are invaluable for anyone looking to adopt a more environmentally-friendly approach to gardening.

Just waiting for your hands to bring them to life

Shifting Our Perspective

While visiting these plant sales, I am constantly reminded of the profound impact our gardening choices have on the ecosystem. Doug Tallamy, the entomologist behind the Homegrown National Park movement, highlights the significance of transforming our yards into biodiversity havens. His studies reveal a troubling trend: in the last 25 years, there’s been an alarming 80% decline in insect populations in the U.S.

Biodiversity in Action

As I stroll through local neighborhoods, it’s evident that an overwhelming majority of garden plants are non-native. This non-continuity disrupts insects and microorganisms’ habitats, increasingly challenging their survival. In Sonoma County, while we are blessed with wild areas, it is crucial that our home gardens provide corridors for these creatures.

“During my gardening journey, I’ve witnessed how transforming a space to incorporate just a few natives can attract a plethora of pollinators,” says Lisa Seale, a dedicated volunteer from Willowside.

Seale emphasizes that all skill levels can engage with this gardening movement, as each native plant offers unique environmental benefits. Learning about “Keystone” natives that support diverse populations of wildlife can significantly contribute to ecological health.

The beauty of nature, redefined in every season

The Keystone Concept

For those eager to start, focusing on keystone natives can maximize your environmental impact. Consider incorporating oaks, yarrow, black sage, or bee’s bliss into your garden. Each of these plants supports essential insects like pollinators, thereby creating ripple effects throughout the ecosystem.

The energy at plant sales like those at Willowside or the California Native Plant Society is palpable. Knowledgeable volunteers are on-hand to guide newcomers and experienced gardeners alike in selecting the right plants for their specific climates and gardening aspirations.

As the sales draw to a close each weekend, one can’t help but feel a sense of community—a shared commitment to nurturing our local environment and ensuring it flourishes now and for generations to come.

Embrace this fall planting season with a spirit of adventure and responsibility. It’s a small step for us, but a giant leap for our ecosystem’s future.

Conclusion

This fall, I encourage all garden enthusiasts to step into the world of native plants. It’s more than just planting; it’s about cultivating connections to the natural world around us. By choosing California natives, you’re ensuring that your garden thrives along with the diverse life it supports. Let’s dig deep, plant wisely, and watch our communities bloom.

For more information on native gardening and sales, you can check out California Flora or visit the Homegrown National Park to learn more about creating biodiversity in your own backyard.