Thriving Gardens: All-New Native Plant Resource

We’re excited to introduce Thriving Gardens, an all-new regional plant guide created by Thrive Regional Partnership and Homegrown National Park. Our President/CEO, Mark McKnight, co-chaired this initiative alongside Lyndhurst Foundation President Bruz Clark. From residents to business owners to community leaders and educators, Thriving Gardens is your ultimate resource for selecting resilient, wildlife-friendly plants in our tri-state region of northeast Alabama, northwest Georgia, and southeast Tennessee.

Thriving Gardens is an exciting new resource related to all-things native plants for our region. Created by Thrive Regional Partnership and Homegrown National Park, this valuable tool helps local residents choose ecologically-friendly plants for their outdoors spaces. At our Native Plant Nursery, we’re often asked where to start and how to choose native species. This outreach tool will be a great resource for delving into the wonderful world of native plants, whether you’re a beginner or seasoned enthusiast.

For many years, Reflection Riding has been spreading the word about native plants and their importance. We’re excited to have the community demand and support needed for a localized resource such as this.
— Mark McKnight, CEO/President of Reflection Riding and Founding Member of Thriving Gardens

Thriving Gardens features native flora of all colors—flowers, shrubs, trees, groundcover, vines, ferns, and ornamental grasses. The guide shares not only local native species but their importance and where to find them at local nurseries and landscaping companies. All plants included in the guide are adapted to the local climate of our ecoregion, meaning they’re sure to thrive with the right light and soil conditions. Thriving Gardens allows you to filter your search by habitat conditions and preferences so that you can find the perfect plant for your space. Each species nurtures wildlife, providing a beautiful haven for pollinators, songbirds, and other animals. From tall Ironweed (Vernonia gigantea) to the mighty Eastern Red Cedar (Juniperus virginiana), every plant brings something special to our region.

We’re proud to support Thriving Gardens as we join together in cultivating beautiful, durable green spaces in Chattanooga and beyond!

Previous
Previous

Renew: Nurturing the Connections with Wildlife

Next
Next

Reflect: Finding Purpose in Land Stewardship