Native Plant Demonstration at VH Commons

Quick Facts:

  • The planting area consists of 2 gardens that were previously infested with invasive reed canary grass that now contain mature native plants, with a focus on flowering plants for pollinators.
  • These mature plants produce seed that is collected by VLAWMO staff and volunteers for use in other restorations in the watershed.
  • Each garden is ~270 square feet for a total of 540 square feet.
  • The runoff coming from the Vadnais Heights Commons drains into Lambert Creek and East Vadnais Lake.

Funding:

This effort was funded in partnership with the City of Vadnais Heights and the VLAWMO Landscape Level 1 grant program. The City of Vadnais Heights also provided: Vehicle time for transportation of plants, Public Works time to clear invasive species, and mulch and supplies for upkeep (ongoing). A local youth group from Unity Unitarian Church volunteered to complete the planting with VLAWMO staff in 2019.

Reasons for project:

  • Park beautification in a high-use public space. 
  • Establishment of plant species that contribute more to soil health than conventional ornamental plants. 
  • To demonstrate the possibilities of native species planted in clumps.
  • Plants in the garden were selected to produce flowers and support pollinators throughout the growing season.
  • A source for seed collections to support other restoration efforts in the watershed. 
  • To support the community and environmental goals of Vadnais Heights Parks and Recreation.

Installation:

  • The installation process involved chemical treatment for invasive reed canary grass (2 applications during late summer 2019) and a skid steer to remove dense reed canary grass root masses.
  • The design of the raingarden was completed in partnership with VLAWMO staff and the City of Vadnais Heights Parks and Recreation.

Native plants in the gardens include:

Pennsylvania Sedge, Ohio Spiderwort, Blazing Star, Virginia Mountain Mint, Butterfly Weed, Black Chokeberry, Snowberry, Turtlehead, and Cardinal Flower.

Results:

The gardens provide an educational tool for residents and businesses interested in learning more about working with native plants. Residents can observe how the plants change through the seasons, find a new favorite plant, or possibly watch pollinators such as bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds up close. 

Check out the VLAWMO Soil Health Grant or the cost-share resources page for financial support and resources on working with native plants.

 

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