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Author Profiles
Kelly LaVaute
Content Creator
Kelly is a content creator and vivid storyteller at Garden for Wildlife. Forget butterfly bushes and begonias! Kelly's not your average garden writer. She's a nature detective, unearthing the secrets of native plants and their superpowers for wildlife (and your garden!). Think dazzling blooms that attract feathered friends, buzzing pollinators, and even sneaky reptiles – all while fighting climate change one blossom at a time.
Posts by Kelly LaVaute
Gardening isn't just about creating a beautiful outdoor space; it's an opportunity to connect with nature and make a positive impact on the environment. If you're a beginner looking to start a garden
On June 3, 2023 The 6th Branch, Broadway East Community Association, National Wildlife Federation and Garden for Wildlife came together on a sunny Saturday morning to help establis
Why Fundraise with Garden for Wildlife? With so many fundraising options, it’s hard to find one that feels good while doing good. That’s where native plant sales fits in:
Abandoned Buildings Turned Habitat for Pollinators Thanks to its motivated residents, empty lots on two different streets within the Detroit Marygrove neighborhood have now taken on new life with many
Why Native Plants? Wildlife gardening with native plants offers a plethora of benefits for both you and the environment. It's a win-win.
In a world increasingly dominated by concrete and manicured lawns, creating a haven for wildlife in your own backyard can feel like a small act. But the truth is, even a tiny wildlife garden brimming
We’re taking a moment to reflect on 2023: our third year of empowering our community with native plants from our independent, regional growers. We can’t wait to build on that impact with you and conti
Are you considering launching a native plant fundraiser with Garden for Wildlife? If so, you might have some questions. We have the answers! In this 13-minute introductory video with our Director of F
Native plants, those that evolved alongside the local ecosystem, hold a secret weapon – perfect adaptation. Science reveals a fascinating interplay between these plants and their environment, leading
During Women's History Month and International Women's Day, we at Garden for Wildlife want to highlight some of our favorite mothers of nature: women who have made their mark in horticulture, gardenin
Imagine your garden as a bustling metropolis, teeming with life. Butterflies flit between vibrant flowers, bees buzz industriously, and birds chirp merrily as they flit from branch to branch. This vib
Create a buzzing hub of activity for bees, butterflies, and birds right in your own garden with native plants. Our guide equips you with the essentials to establish a thriving pollinator garden, highl
Congrats on your decision to plant with a purpose! When you garden with native plants, you’ll help wildlife and the planet, while also enjoying the beauty of nature just outside your home.
In the fall of 2022, the Garden Club of America launched a nationwide, multidisciplinary, cross-committee collaboration to promote native plants by formally establishing a Native Plant Month in all f
Wet areas in gardens or landscapes, such as marshes, bogs, and soggy low-lying spots, often pose a gardening challenge. However, these moisture-rich environments present a unique opportunity to cultiv
Spring paints the world anew, with vibrant blooms pushing through the thawing earth. But these early blossoms aren't just a feast for the eyes; they're a vital lifeline for the first wave of pollinato
Shubber Ali is CEO of Garden for Wildlife. He is a father, husband, avid gardener, and loves nature - and it’s those last two things that led to his current role.
In the world of conservation, Garden for Wildlife collaborator Dr. Doug Tallamy stands as a beacon of hope, advocating for biodiversity preservation through innovative approaches. His pioneering work
As Earth Day approaches, there's no better time to reflect on our impact on the planet and how we can make a positive difference. At Garden for Wildlife, we believe that one of the best ways to contri
As gardeners, we eagerly await the arrival of spring, ready to dig into the soil and bring our landscapes to life. However, understanding frost dates is crucial for successful gardening, especially wh
Whether you have a sprawling backyard habitat or a tiny balcony container garden, you hold the power to create a critical haven for wildlife.
Swamp. Milkweed. Not the most enticing name, huh? We know. While Shrek might enjoy planting some swamp milkweed in his domain, this pink powerhouse native plant is far from an obnoxious weed.
In the quest to create a thriving garden that supports local ecosystems and wildlife, one of the most impactful choices you can make is selecting native plants. Native plants not only contribute to th
Mother's Day is just around the corner, and what better way to honor the special women in our lives than with the gift of nature's beauty? This year, skip the traditional bouquet of flowers and opt fo
Hummingbirds, marvels of the avian world, grace the Americas with their vibrant colors and unparalleled aerial prowess. From the ruby-throated hummingbird in eastern North America to the Anna's hummin
In recent years, the concept of sustainability has gained significant traction, permeating various aspects of our lives, including how we approach gardening. But what exactly does sustainable gardenin
Goldenrod, often misunderstood as a culprit for seasonal allergies, is actually a powerhouse when it comes to supporting biodiversity and wildlife in your garden. This native plant, often unjustly mal
Your first task? Enjoy your garden! Take the time to notice new growth, or first-time wildlife visitors. Listen to the birds. Watch the bees and delight in the fireflies you are supporting. All t
June is a special time for those who cherish the buzzing, fluttering, and humming of pollinators in their gardens. It’s Pollinator Month, with Pollinator Week—a dedicated week within the month—serving
These days, when the topic of honeysuckle arises, it often evokes frustration due to the invasive nature of Lonicera japonica, commonly known as Japanese honeysuckle (right), which aggressively spread