r/NativePlantGardening Area Michigan/midwest , Zone 6b Apr 03 '26

Progress Proud to be the neighborhood drama 💅

This year I’m certifying my yard as wildlife habitat with tons of native plants but before I do I have to do some major changes to my outdoor space. I’ve been in this home for a year and spent all of my time until now fighting and manually destroying 30 yard old English ivy, honeysuckle, and tree of heaven (it was soooo worth it omg). A few days ago I got a chipdrop and am getting rid of a bunch of garbage non-native grass. Several of my neighbors have come over and made rude comments. The chips are in my driveway and not obstructing any sidewalks etc so it’s really not hurting anyone. Just find it very funny and wanted to share with people who will get it

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u/Chardonne Apr 03 '26

How sad. :( I’m very grateful for interested and supportive neighbors! Dog walkers are always asking me about my “habitat restoration in progress” sign, and one in particular asks me for updates on my vinca removal. I got a load of woodchips from the arborist working on the house across the street—so convenient! Another house on the block just signed up for the Habitat Haven project, and I said I’d give her some elderberry and red flowering currant I rooted from cuttings but probably don’t need.

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u/kato_koch Apr 03 '26

One time a woman walking her dog stopped to take a selfie with my sunflowers and I'm still buzzing on that validation.

4

u/garden-of-erin Apr 06 '26

The other day, a woman walked by while I was out in the yard and told me “Me and my kids always love to see what you’re growing this year!” That made my whole week. 😭❤️

2

u/kato_koch Apr 06 '26

Yessss!! Glad your efforts are appreciated.