by Alicia Davis
Recently, I had the chance to sit down with Fairview gardener Helene to chat about her use of native plants. I thought other Fairviewers might find her approach inspiring. Here’s our discussion:
Interviewer (A): You mentioned that you have a hybrid garden. Can you tell us more about it?
Gardener (H): Absolutely! My garden is a blend of food forest, native plants, and cultivar plants. I grow a variety of fruits like pears, apples, plums, strawberries, currants, gooseberries, raspberries, haskaps, and goji berries. I also cultivate herbs such as oregano, tarragon, and mint, along with many annual vegetables. Three years ago, I discovered the value of incorporating native Alberta plants into my garden, and it transformed everything. These plants are not only drought-tolerant but can also thrive in our unique climate—handling temperatures from +15°C in January to snow in July!
A: Wait, such plants exist?
H: Yes, and they are beautiful too. I love spending time in the mountains, and having similar flowers in my yard is simply amazing. I started many from seeds, purchased some as plugs, and I’m part of the Alberta Native Plant Rescue group. We work with construction companies to rescue plants before they clear sites. For example, we’ve rescued plants from a highway project near Cochrane and a future residential area close to Seton. It’s important to note that it’s illegal to take flowers from the wild, so these organized events are fantastic opportunities to get free plants and contribute positively to the environment.
A: If I want to help bees, do I need to keep a beehive?
H: Contrary to popular belief, you don’t need a beehive. Honeybees are actually from Europe. Alberta is home to 375 species of native bees, which are far more efficient pollinators but require the right kind of plants for food. This is where native plants come in, and its much less work than maintaining a beehive. I recommend watching videos by Doug Tallamy; his insights were an eye-opener for me and can be for anyone interested in this journey.
A: So how do I get started? Should I buy a wildflower seed pack?
H: Most wildflower seed packs available are from the USA or eastern Canada and don’t contain native Albertan species. We have two local shops—Wild About Flowers and ALCLA—that sell genuine Alberta native plants. Learning the Latin names of plants is crucial too. Early on, I mistakenly bought beebalm and Jacob’s Ladder thinking they were native, but they were not. Using your phone to verify plant names while shopping can help. Another great way is to join a rescue event, visit the local shops mentioned, or even drop by my place if I’m in the yard. I’ve collected many seeds and am happy to share them with fellow Fairview residents. My goal is to foster a native plants community, and it’s wonderful to see more people adding flower beds or replacing their lawns with native plants.
Since I increased the variety of native flowers, I’ve noticed new birds and bees visiting my yard. I love it. It’s always a surprise.
A: It sounds like a lot of work, no?
H: Not more than other plants. I’m in front of a computer all day, so spending time outside is relaxing. And I love all the new people I’ve met since I changed my front yard. Most of them pass by when they walk their dogs and stop to chat.
A: How can people find your place?
H: Head to Fredson Drive near the diamond field and look for the yard with no grass. You’ll see two other similar yards on Fraser Road; their owners were a source of inspiration for me.
I see over 15 gardens in Fairview with native plants in their front yard. Join us!
Free local resources:
• https://friendsoffishcreek.org/grow-with-us/
• https://www.calgary.ca/water/programs/yardsmart-design-garden-bed-for-native-wildflowers.html
Brown-eyed Susan (Gaillardia aristata) with two native bees
Meadow Blazing Star (Liatris ligulistylis)
Smooth Aster (Symphyotrichum laeve) and Butterfly
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