Lawns to Legumes Garden Gallery

Region

Twin Cities Metro Area

City

Minneapolis

Project Type(s)

Pocket Planting

Template(s) Used

None

Site Conditions

Gardener Name

Tim

Gardener Comments

My front yard has a slope. Since the aim is to create a garden that is active throughout the growing season, I designed mine to flower at the bottom (on the slope) first, then roll up toward my house. I planted it in summer of 2023, so the garden is still new. I learned to use a sod cutter. I rented it for the day. It was hard work in the heat last summer, but the results are great! My coach suggested that I could simply turn over the sod I cut, which saved me having to buy soil to fill in what I removed, which kept my cost much lower.
I chose to put my garden in my front yard. Since I have a bad back, putting in the garden was a great way to avoid having to mow on the slope! If you can improve your yard by filling in a “problem” area, go for it!
I also learned that squirrels love lupines, which I had initially included. If you have a lot of squirrels, avoid planting lupines!”
I also have some milkweed in my yard. A former neighbor had milkweed in her boulevard planting and they have spread, even adding a couple plants to my original garden. Although not part of the original design, I’m happy to have them since they remind me of her.
Also, if you create a plan for your garden, keep it. It will help you remember what you planted where if you forget.
The dry winter we had made me worry that I might lose a lot of what I planted, but native species are hardy and accustomed to the variation in Minnesota weather. I lost some of the Prairie Dropseed I planted, but it can easily be replaced.
Finally, pay attention to plant height. If you want a beautiful garden, make sure it can be enjoyed from multiple angles and that one type of plant doesn’t overshadow others. Since mine is in the front yard, I made sure to plant taller flowers and plants closer to the house so people passing on the sidewalk and street could see everything.”

Wildlife Observed

Other than the squirrels (LOL), I have noticed more bees. Having been stung more than once as a kid, I used to be afraid of bees, but they are a huge part of the ecosystem. Now I just say hello to them when they visit.