Lilttle Cypress Natives in Florence, Alabama

Native Azalea buds

Today I celebrate the turning tide in this country, maybe the world, toward using native plants. The gardener's mantra is "Right Plant - Right Place." I've made so many mistakes in my gardening career but have found that following that rule makes gardening so much simpler.


Carroll and I traveled to Florence Saturday afternoon to one of our favorite places on the planet - Little Cypress Natives. Harry & Linda Wallace live in this gorgeous wooded area flanked by wide open, green fields. Down the road is the historic Forks of Cypress plantation built by James Jackson who long ago was president of the Alabama Senate. That's another story entirely for another post one day. For the purposes of this post it's enough to note that Little Cypress Natives nursery is located on land once owned as part of the famous plantation.


Harry and Linda became enchanted by native plants when they built their home here. Over time their hobby became a thriving business. The best part about their nursery are their home grounds overlooking Little Cypress Creek. You can hear the creek waters running while strolling pathways that wind through their native gardens that sport huge rocks, moss, unexpected resting areas and, of course, native plants. It's extremely helpful seeing these plants in various garden settings as you can see how they grow and what works well together.


The resident cat, Dick, is a charmer who loves to be loved on and makes kitty biscuits while softly purring. Dick the cat nearly came home with me, but I figured Harry & Linda might miss him so I let him be.


Harry just put this new redwood swing deep in the grounds. A jasmine laden trellis grants shelter complete with heady floral scent. The old push mower adds a humorous touch while Dick looks on.
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The view from the swing - Little Cypress Creek far below the hillside.

Another place to rest and enjoy nature.

Yet another place to rest. Beside this overhanging porch is a little stone waterfall that Harry and Linda had installed that rambles over stones and gives the birds a constant source of water. It's nice to listen to as well while one takes in the view and listens to the birds.

Charming.

Simply enjoy.

The native azaleas are beginning to bloom now.

Garden pathway with Little Cypress Creek visible on the right.

After our gentle saunter through the woods we return to buy plants.

Thanks Harry & Linda (and Dick)

Happy Easter everyone.