What we’re working with at the Middle Garden
We all have a different garden. Even my next door neighbor could have different microclimates that enable growth that the Middle Garden couldn’t support. As you read about this garden and plan to apply some methodologies, take stock of your own conditions and made adjustments as needed. Message me if you feel stuck!
Location
Evanston, IL. Great Lakes Region. Our zone is 6a. This means my perennial plant lists should include plants that are hardy down to -10F to -5F. “Hardy” as in tough as old boots for being able to sit outside in -10F.
Soil Type
On the clay-y side with some good loamy areas. Drainage is not great. I should try to avoid plants that need good drainage (such as Lavender). That is, I shouldn’t put them in my soil; pots, on the other hand, are a-okay.
Garden Style
A garden will never fully mimic nature, they are wo/manmade, after all. But that doesn’t mean I can’t create a space where native plants, critters, fungi, and soil habitats can thrive. I aim for a garden that’s visually striking, cozy to walk among, and a haven for my area’s wildlife. This is all to say, I am an organic gardener. I rely on a balanced eco-system to tackle itself (I’ve seen aphid populations handled well in this way).