Gardening shows beauty, order, and balance.
Rebecca McMackin is an ecological horticulturalist. She sees gardening as more than art. For her, gardening helps life grow and gives safe spots for animals. McMackin talks about gardens that mix beauty with nature. Her view tells us to welcome wild nature. This step makes our space healthy.
The Problem: Ecological Deserts
Today, many gardens lack life and a mix of plants and animals. They feel like deserts. McMackin says this is not one personal taste. It is a big problem. In the U.S., many chemicals are used each year. These chemicals hurt the plants and animals we try to beautify. Most gardens do not give safe homes to local species. They instead break down nature.
The Bright Side: A Movement Toward Ecological Gardening
A new trend grows around the world. Gardeners and planners now see that gardens can be homes for local species. These spaces work for nature and also look neat. McMackin changed parks like Brooklyn Bridge Park. Her work shows this change. She turned old shipping piers into green places. Even busy cities can welcome nature.
Perfume of Native Plants: A Symphony of Life
McMackin cares for native plants. They suit the local life. Native plants and local animals grow together. They help each other. Take the eastern red columbine: in spring, it looks lovely. It gives nectar to ruby-throated hummingbirds when they journey. This way, both plant and bird help each other. Gardeners can choose native species.
The Butterfly Effect: Supporting Life Cycles
Planting flowers helps, and so does giving caterpillars the food they need. Each butterfly relies on its own favorite plants for eggs and young. McMackin was happy to see American lady butterflies come to Brooklyn Bridge Park. She planted their loved host, pearly everlasting. Her work shows that one small plant can bring much life.
Rethinking Pests: A Natural Balance
We must change how we see pests. McMackin shows that pests have a part to play in nature. She tells a story. Aphids on catalpa trees brought in two-spotted lady beetles. These beetles eat aphids. This happened because she did not spray chemicals. When we allow some disorder, gardens can give food and safe homes to help species.
Embrace the Wild: Rethinking Garden Aesthetics
McMackin asks us to accept wild growth in our gardens. We usually think neat lawns show beauty. She asks us to see old ways in a new light. She tells us to leave room for wildflowers, let leaves fall, and let plants grow as they will. When we allow wild growth, gardens live and support animals.
Conclusion: A Call to Action
In a time of fewer insects and birds, McMackin’s words ask us to act. Her message gives hope. We can all help make gardens that look good and help life grow. From a balcony to a backyard, we can plant native life and let nature run its way. This step makes gardens grow with life. Accept the wild side. Let nature show us how to make spaces that grow life and look good.
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