by Kit Gage
We have just planted two native trees in front of Temple Sinai: a Scarlet Oak (Quercus coccinea) and a seedless Sweet Gum (Liquidambar styraciflua). Almost immediately after two oak canopy trees died and were cut down, we wanted to replace them. Trees are too important to the environment and to humans not to start young native canopy trees in their stead. This should be everyone’s practice, the Green Team recommends. Links to free trees or coupons:
At the same area, just off the Library where people can see as they round the bend, we have located a site for a native plant perennial pollinator garden. It’ll be visible and support pollinators when planted in the spring. For now we have cardboard and mulch on the future site, adding organic matter and suppressing weeds at the area. In late April or so, when young plants are available, we’ll ask for volunteers to help us plant.
This little native plant garden is an example for everyone. It’s a small relatively simple site, which will use a handful of species native to the area, perennials that will minimize weeding and require no pesticides or fertilizers. It follows the Sacred Grounds program using religious institutions to encourage congregants to use native plants.