Native gardens on display on Sunday

By Roni Gehlke

When Frances Dahlquist first moved to her Pittsburg home in 2001 she had an empty canvas in her front yard that she could do anything she wanted with.

After reading a book on native gardens, she was inspired to do some research on what the native plant life in East Contra County looked like. She found many great sources in the area on the subject, and after preparing the space for planting, she was on her way.

This Sunday Dahlquist will feature her garden in the Bringing Back the Natives Garden Tour. The tour includes dozens of other gardens throughout Contra Costa and Alameda counties as well.

"I found through my research that native life greatly prefers native plants," Dahlquist said.
"Native insects and the bird population in the area thrive on the native plants that are already here. I like to support the wildlife in the area."

One example of the wildlife thriving on native plants would be the bee population, she said, noting that there are many varieties of bees in the area.

"The bumble bees are beautiful this time of year," Dahlquist said, explaining that she can support the ecosystem and make a little oasis in her area for all the wildlife.
Although this is the first time Dahlquist has participated in the garden tour, the tour itself has been around for five years. Those from East County who wish to tour the gardens this Sunday can start at Dahlquist's home and then make their way from there.

"People can go to the Web site to see the walk-in registration site nearest to them," said Kathy Kramer of the Bringing Back the Natives Garden Tour committee.

The garden tours are free and registration covers passes to 60 gardens and native plant nurseries. The tours come with a tour booklet that gives information on each of the gardens on the tour. Some garden talks also are scheduled throughout the day. Kramer said that the tour is a great place to learn about caring for native plants, attracting butterflies, birds and bees to your garden and ways to lower your water bill.

The tours take place from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Sunday only, and advance registration is required. Kramer request that no one go to the gardens earlier for view as the gardeners will still be working on their gardens to the day of the event. For more information visit www.bringingbackthenatives.net.

If you go
WHAT: Bringing Back the Natives Garden Tour
WHEN: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday
WHERE: Gardens through Alameda and Contra Costa counties
INFO: 925-516-9009 or www.bringingbackthenatives.net
COST: free