Cypress Cove at Health Park

Retirement Communities

Many communities have common areas that are perfect for bird and butterfly gardens. Having an area located around a pond makes the wildlife garden even more productive because water is a necessity for wildlife, as it is for us.

Text Box: The before pictures tell it all. This site had been disturbed while construction of the surrounding community and pond were on going. As construction was completed, this area was left unkempt and became eye sore to the residents. Text Box: Wow, what a difference some mulch and plants can make. After the area was cleared, mulch was placed at least two to three inches thick. In the foreground the football sized rocks were used to define the garden and keep the mulch in place. This gorgeous sign lets residents know they have arrived in a very special place within their very own community. Text Box: A brick paver sitting area was put in and benches arrived soon there after. Now the garden is a wonderful destination in the community. A place to sit and watch the birds and butterflies! A place to sit a spell in the middle of a long walk. Trees have been placed close to the sitting area to produce shade. You may not see shade now, but within five years this spot will be shady and cool. Text Box: In this picture we are preparing the ground. We mowed the small vegetation and are preparing to kill the grass and put mulch down. The pavers have arrived and are a sign of a future sitting area. Text Box: Although there are plants here, the habitat and food for native wildlife is neglible.

Text Box: All of the larger vegetation has been removed and piled up; it is staged for us to remove it from the site.

Text Box: A variety of shrubs were used on this planting to provide nectar for butterflies and berries at all different times of the year for birds. Firebush and fiddlewood are two of our most attractive native large shrubs. They are producing something for wildlife all year round!

Land adjacent to water edges are especially important. Any chemicals run off directly into the water and affect water quality. Native plants do not require fertilizer. Mulch is all they need to fill their nutrient requirements; therefore, eliminating the source of pollution.