Taproot Eco Design is getting back into the plant nursery business. We have spent the last several years establishing Taproot Eco Design in the Knoxville/Maryville landscape markets and we want to get back into the plant production business, but on a smaller scale. The amount of money that landscape installers spend on plants is quite large over the course of a year – in excess of $40,000 for us. Any amount of these plants that we can produce ourselves is money straight into our pocket. With issues like inconsistent availability, poor quality or simply not enough stock, we decided that growing our own plants was the way to go. Taproot started out on a small piece of land in Hardin Valley (pictured above), we had no idea what we were doing but were driven by a passion for plants and a willingness to learn.
The main theme of one of my favorite books, Zen Mind, Beginner’s Mind by Shunryu Suzuki, talks about always maintaining the beginner’s mind in your meditation practice. The beginner’s mind is excited, passionate and always open to new ideas. The opening of the book says: “In the beginner’s mind there are many possibilities, but in the expert’s there are few.” Someone that approaches landscape design with a beginner’s mind will never think they know it all and understand that becoming an expert in this business means that you learn something new every day. If anyone in the the landscape industry ever tells you they have it all figured out – run away from that person as fast as you can and don’t look back.
Taproot Nursery will mainly produce the plants that we use in our design/installs – lots of grasses, sedges, native perennials, several types of ferns, hosta and succulents. Obviously we can not produce ALL the plants we use in a given design like trees, most shrubs or larger scale specimens because we simply do not have the room. With that being said, it is amazing how much you can produce in such a small area given that a 1 gallon pot does not require much space. We do have the advantage of having full sun, partial shade and full shade all in the same small backyard. We can grow full shade ferns 70 feet away from full sun perennials like amsonia hubrichtii. This a hard set up to create artificially (shade cloth) so we will not waste what we have been afforded.
Taproot has two main goals that need to reach for this endeavor to be successful – reduce the cost of plant material by 25% by growing our own stock and learn more about the plants we install. Perfecting the process of growing plants that we use in our designs will give us a more in-depth knowledge of plant processes and in turn give every plant we install the best shot at success. By immersing ourselves in the plant production process we hope that better overall plant health and noticing the signs of plant sickness will make us better at what we do and ultimately will benefit our customers and their landscapes.
Stay tuned as we chronicle the process of converting a suburban backyard into a fully functioning native plant nursery. We will construct plant growing tiers by using an old trampoline frame, create a rain catchment system that will allow us to use untreated water most of the year and dig out a pond for water sequestration. We are excited and hope you can come along for the ride.
In recent years, there has been a noticeable shift in the landscape design world, with homeowners, businesses, and public parks alike embracing the diverse beauty and environmental benefits of native plant design. It’s an approach that blends aesthetics with ecology, resulting in stunning landscapes that are in harmony with their local environment.
In one study in Mind, 95% of those interviewed said their mood improved after spending time outside, changing from depressed, stressed, and anxious to more calm and balanced. Other studies by Ulrich, Kim, and Cervinka show that time in nature or scenes of nature are associated with a positive mood, and psychological wellbeing, meaningfulness, and vitality. Over the last 3 years I, personally have seen what the benefits of being in nature every day will do for my overall mental health. Now, I do not know how I ever survived without this approach or slept well for that matter. Forest bathing has become a popular term over the last few years. Since surviving the pandemic, countless people developed habits of walking, hiking or simply sitting in their backyards as a stress relief management system. Do not go to the mall or your local gym to walk around an indoor track or even worse, a treadmill. Simply go outside and go for a walk – preferably in a place with trees, flowers and green. Breath it in and feel the restorative properties that occur when you immerse yourself in nature.
For the uninitiated, native plant design refers to the practice of using plants that are indigenous to a specific geographical region in landscaping projects. These plants have evolved naturally over thousands of years to survive and thrive in local conditions, making them a sustainable and low-maintenance choice. The overall look is something that many clients can not wrap their head around, not to mention that to them it just looks ugly. When I first started out in this field 16 years ago, I would have definitely fit into this category – not only did I not know many native species but more importantly, it was not pleasing to my eye. Over time I grew to appreciate the native plant aesthetic by noticing its beauty in nature, not in a design, but on a local hike or in the mountains. Taking that natural native look to a backyard in West Knoxville became the next challenge. The ultimate challenge is getting clients’ to appreciate it on their own without the designer having to tell them how beautiful it is.
The growing popularity of native plant design can be attributed to several factors. Firstly, using native plants in landscaping projects greatly reduces the need for water, fertilizers, and pesticides, making them a more environmentally friendly choice. They also help to create habitats for local wildlife, contributing to the preservation of biodiversity. We have talked about this subject matter in previous articles and will continue to make the connection between native plant design and the beneficial effects it brings to local biodiversity.
In addition, native plants offer a sense of place and authenticity that can’t be replicated with exotic species. They help to maintain the distinctive characteristics of local landscapes, creating a strong connection between people and the natural world around them. Not to mention that natives have a much better survival rate because they are conditioned to thrive in local soil conditions, summer drought or frigid temperatures in the winter months. Look at Knoxville over the past 2 winters, we have had below normal temperatures that have wreaked havoc on some plant species. Most of the victims have been non-natives like boxwoods, crape myrtle, distylium or indian hawthorne.
Furthermore, the use of native plants has been linked to health benefits. Research shows that being in nature, particularly in green spaces that resemble natural ecosystems, can reduce stress and increase feelings of well-being. Find a park or some type of green space near your home that makes you feel calm and visit this place as often as possible. If you can accomplish this type of setting in your own backyard, even better.
As the climate crisis deepens, the importance of sustainable landscaping practices is becoming increasingly clear. Native plant design offers a practical and beautiful solution, helping to create resilient landscapes that can withstand the impacts of climate change. As we talked about earlier in the article, natives have an advantage over non-indigenous plants because the climate and soil conditions are not foreign to them and little acclimation is needed.
Another factor driving the popularity of native plant design is the trend towards outdoor living. As more people seek to make the most of their outdoor spaces, there is a growing demand for landscapes that are not only beautiful, but also functional and sustainable. It has taken some time but the public, overall, has started to see the beauty in this type of designing. It is no longer an aesthetic that is only pushed by landscape designers. It is an amazing feeling when you show up for a new lead and the first words out of the client’s mouth is, “native plant design.” Usually these types of clients are very knowledgeable which makes your job as a designer easier because they know what they want.
Despite its many benefits, native plant design does pose some challenges. Finding the right plants can be difficult, particularly in urban areas where native species may not be readily available. However, a growing number of nurseries are now specializing in native plants, making it easier than ever to incorporate them into your landscape design. In Knoxville we are especially lucky to have a non-profit organization that collects native plants from sites scheduled for construction and disperses them to the community. NPRS or Native Plant Rescue Squad will sell these reclaimed plants to the public and also do plant installations for private homeowners and community programs as well. Taproot recently worked with NPRS to complete a wildflower garden in the Island Home Community. NPRS is also a great source of information about native plant design and what each individual plant can do for the health and beauty of your garden.
I am always amazed by the native plant lovers that have not acquainted themselves with their local native nursery – at this point, they exist, I promise, you just have to make an effort to find them. I do not know a better way to spend an afternoon than slowly moving through a native plant collection and imagining the possibilities. It doesn’t matter whether it is for work or relaxation it is always time well spent.
In conclusion, the popularity of native plant design is a testament to a broader cultural shift towards sustainability and environmental consciousness. As we continue to grapple with the impacts of climate change, it’s likely that this trend will only continue to grow. So, whether you’re planning a major landscaping project or simply looking to add a touch of nature to your outdoor space, consider embracing the beauty and benefits of native plants, your community and local environment will thank you.
In the concrete jungles of urban areas, it’s easy to feel disconnected from nature. But what if you could transform your small patch of land into an oasis filled with wildflowers and native grasses? Urban Wildflower gardening in urban areas is a growing trend that not only adds a touch of natural beauty to our surroundings but also provides essential habitats for pollinators and other wildlife, including insects. Downtown Knoxville is buoyed by the success of the Urban Wilderness initiative where large areas have been saved from further development by becoming walking/mountain biking trails for public use. As successful as this program has been, we need to take it a step further and allow our downtown to mimic the wilderness around it. In this blog entry, we will explore the benefits of wildflower gardening in urban areas and provide some tips to help you get started on your own urban wildflower garden.
Check in your local area for native plant nurseries that can provide not only plants, but helpful advicePurple coneflowers are native to East Tennessee and provide a great food source to birds in late summerSimply letting your existing grass grow for a month will reveal hidden beauty
1. The Benefits of Urban Wildflower Gardening: – Enhancing Biodiversity: Urban areas often lack natural habitats. By planting wildflowers, you can create a welcoming space for bees, butterflies, birds, and other pollinators, promoting biodiversity and helping to sustain local ecosystems. – Improving Air Quality: Wildflowers absorb carbon dioxide and release oxygen, helping to improve air quality in urban environments and combatting the effects of pollution. We can not see what we are breathing in downtown areas, many times it is a mixture of car pollution – ambient (outdoor) fine particle air pollution (PM2.5) and nitrogen dioxide (NO2), which can be filtered and minimized with the presence of a proper urban landscape. Sometimes I wish we could see the benefit of plants in our environment, actually see plants taking in carbon dioxide (bad) and releasing oxygen (good) right before our very eyes. This would at least convince some of the skeptics of the value that plants bring to our world and that without them we could not exist. Unfortunately, many people have to see something with their own eyes before they believe it or understand its importance. – Creating Beauty and Serenity: Wildflowers bring a burst of color and beauty to urban landscapes, transforming dull spaces into vibrant and visually appealing areas. They also provide a sense of serenity and tranquility, offering a respite from the hustle and bustle of city life. Studies have been done that confirm the fact that we are genuinely happier and more productive if we have trees and green scape readily available. Whether this means trees outside of your office window or a quiet, landscaped courtyard where you can eat lunch, the benefits of outdoor spaces filled with plants is immense when it comes to good mental health.
2. Choosing the Right Wildflowers for Urban Gardens: – Native Species: Selecting native wildflowers is crucial as they are well-adapted to the local climate and soil conditions. They also play a vital role in supporting indigenous wildlife. We have talked about this in previous articles – native wildflowers and shrubs attract native species and insects that have no use for plants like nandina or the ornamental garden juniper we used for groundcover. In most cases, native species will eat the plants they are familiar with or what they have traditionally eaten. – Low-Maintenance Varieties: Opt for wildflowers that are low-maintenance and require minimal watering or fertilization. This will make it easier to maintain your urban garden without compromising its aesthetics. Drought tolerance should be the number one factor when choosing your plants because most urban landscapes do not have the ability to draw water from far away. These plants usually only have a small plot of soil with minimal depth to survive in so the ability to go long periods without water is key. – Long Bloom Periods: Look for wildflowers that have extended bloom periods, ensuring that your garden will have a continuous display of flowers throughout the season. This is important in any landscape design but particularly in urban landscapes because of the limited space that you have as a designer to make a visual impact. These factors make designing these spaces more challenging but also rewarding when you can produce an attractive urban setting with limited space and plant choices.
3. Designing and Maintaining Your Urban Wildflower Garden: – Assess your Space: Determine the available space for your garden, whether it’s a small balcony, rooftop, or a tiny backyard. Consider factors like sunlight exposure and soil quality to ensure the success of your garden. The design process can be as simple as determining what native plants will work in the space, purchasing plants and then arranging them before installation. Being able to arrange in a way that maximizes the bloom time/seasonal interest in each plant while also spreading the blooms through all four seasons is easier said than done and can challenge the most experienced landscape designer.
If this is your first time designing and things do not go as planned, don’t worry, this is not a permanent planting. Gardening is truly a trial and error endeavor that is never completely mastered so run quickly away from anyone that says they have it all figured out. By using native plants you greatly increase your chances for success since they have a much better survival rate than the plant you buy from the big box store. – Soil Preparation: Wildflowers generally prefer well-drained soil. Prepare the soil by removing any weeds or debris and add organic matter to improve its fertility and drainage. Keep in mind that most native wildflowers and the grasses that naturally accompany them are not accustom to rich, fertile soils but poor, nutrient deficient soils that contain rock and other unwanted material. Try to match this soil quality and do not use fluffy potting soils that you would use to plant your annual container garden. – Planting Techniques: Follow the instructions on the seed packets for optimal planting depth and spacing. Scatter the seeds evenly or create small clusters or ‘drifts’ to accentuate the groupings of certain plants. Piet Oudolf, a Dutch garden designer, is an expert at this method, he creates wild spaces that have a loose structure to them that allows the viewer to appreciate the highlighted groups of plants that the designer wants to draw attention to. Lurie Garden in downtown Chicago is an Oudolf masterpiece that brings the beauty of the prairie to one of the busiest cities in the world.
– Maintenance: The beauty of using native wildflowers and grasses is that your garden will only get so big. There will not be a whole lot of trimming or work to do on your space from year to year. Mainly it will be keeping the garden confined to the space for which it was intended and not spilling out onto walkways or driveways. Once a year, early February, the space will need to be cut down 3-4 inches from ground level to allow for new growth. Simply cut everything back and remove the waste, some finer clippings can be left behind to decompose into fertilizer. This is for wildflower/grass areas only, shrubs and trees will be trimmed according to their individual needs in the years that follow. A good tip to follow is shaping your trees/shrubs before they get to optimal size. Waiting until something is overgrown and then aggressively trimming it back stresses the plant out and may result in unwanted die off. When the plant is 2/3 its eventual size trim it back ever so slightly to slow down the growth rate. Then wait a season or two until the plant is close to optimal size and trim it again. This patient approach allows your plant to be “trained” to be the size you want instead of trying to force it.
In previous articles Taproot Eco Design has talked about the significance of wild space in our environment and hopefully some good advice on how to incorporate them at your house. Taproot deeply believes in this ideology and hopes to successfully promote this idea in the Knoxville area in the future. As with anything else we need the help and involvement of the community in this endeavor and hope we can humbly add to the growing movement we see going on around us. Progress is slow, but if you take the time to notice and no where to look, it is easy to see. To participate you can do nothing – just let your lawn grow, without cutting it, until Memorial Day and see what happens… Some wildflowers may appear, the existing grass you have will get taller and form seed heads, when long enough the grass will move with the wind and create a sound you probably have never heard while standing in your lawn. Imagine your own landscape providing you with peace and serenity that is hard to find sometimes in an urban setting and the benefit over time that could bring.
