Grow: Native Plant Garden Tour Hartzells – Three Tours in One!

Our final garden tour of the season found us at the home of Jeanne and Will Hartzell.  It was a fantastic opportunity to visit a property that meets HOA approval in the front yard and fully embraces native plantings in the back.  The Hartzells are 7 years into transforming their extraordinary site from farmland to a paradise for pollinators and birds.  Berry-filled shrubs and trees were in abundance, as active birders the Hartzells know what is needed to feed our feathered friends throughout the year. 

Even in October native flowers were still bloom.  There was much to see surrounding the house, an entire tour worth of plantings.  We were able to see well-established garden beds and those that were new this year. 

Then as a bonus for the adventurer, there was a forested downhill trail followed by a raised walkway through a marshy area.  A bench was perfectly positioned to sit and look out over the marshland where we spotted several natives.  Following the raised walkway to its end, we emerged into a huge wildflower meadow and then on to our Rappahannock River.  

The ecosystem the Hartzells have created for birds and pollinators was both heartwarming and inspiring – wildlife abounds.  It really was three tours in one – we were so lucky to be there!

(photo credit:  Kassandra Givler)