Local Homes Open Their Doors: Tour Spotlights Native Plant Gardens

RICHMOND, Va. (WRIC) — Enthusiasts of flora will have the opportunity to explore seven nearby residences on Saturday showcasing indigenous vegetation in the Richmond region.

The fourth yearly Richmond Area Native Plant Garden Open House is scheduled for Saturday, May 17 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., offering visitors the chance to explore seven nearby gardens that provide sanctuary for birds, bees, and butterflies.

On Saturday, people can visit the following locations in any order and view gardens grown with native plants for free:

  • 206 Elm Street, Ashland 23005
  • 1605 Westbrook Avenue, Richmond 23227
  • 1503 Wilmington Avenue, Richmond 23227
  • 606 Freeman Road, Richmond 23221
  • 1806 Nortonia Road, Henrico 23229
  • 10325 Waltham Drive, Henrico 23238
  • 9501 Meadowview Road, Henrico 23294

The 8 News team interviewed Charlene Noll, who has set up one of the gardens featured in the tour.

Noll mentioned that she relocated to her residence in Richmond in 2022 and was not satisfied with the yard. As a result, she decided to “terminate” the lawn and replaced it with indigenous flora.

“Many of the plants in my garden are indigenous to our part of Virginia, and since I’m quite near the James River, these plants draw numerous fascinating native solitary bees,” according to Noll.

Noll mentioned that the garden has drawn various butterflies — such as monarchs — along with dragonflies.

As stated by Noll, individuals joining the tour on Saturdays have the opportunity to converse with the homeowners regarding their gardens and obtain native plants, subject to availability.

“It’s simply an excellent method for individuals to gather inspiration for their own properties, aiding in the sustenance of native plants and animals,” Noll explained.

To learn more about the Richmond Area Native Plant Garden Open House, check out their website.

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