Bird-Friendly Backyards: Alan Crockett
This is a continuation of our National Pollinator Week series in which we interview GEAS members about how they have incorporated native plants into their backyards.
Interview with Alan Crockett, GEAS Member and Former Board Member
What inspired you to incorporate native habitat into your yard?
We are members of the ID Native Plant Society, Master Naturalists, and ex Master Gardeners as well as Audubon members, so naturally we are interested in native plants. We moved into this home with a small, fully landscaped yard, 6 years ago from a home in Idaho Falls with 2 acres, a stream, over 150 trees, and a native plant garden. While we have added some native plants to our new yard, we have declined to totally revise the yard and irrigation system to accommodate lots of native plants.
Tell us a little bit about the background story of your backyard habitat.
As noted above, we have not done a great deal. We put in vegetable gardens and a small herb/cactus garden. We took out some trees and added columbine, golden currents, Oregon grape, serviceberry, some small forbs, and varieties of yarrow, penstemon, buckwheat, flax, blanket flower, pussy toes, milkweed, coneflower, and ice plants.
What has been the most challenging aspect of having native plant species in your yard?
The challenge has always been the amount of sun we receive. Our yard is shady because of our large trees. But the trees are great for birds, attract many birds, and provide natural air-conditioning.
What is your favorite part of having native habitat in your yard?
Alice (my wife) has been the main gardener and she loves to try out new little native plants while I provide the muscle for the larger shrubs/trees.
What would you tell someone who is considering incorporating more native plants in their outdoor space?
I would remind them that for this area in southwest Idaho, native plants thrive in the sun and that, once established, watering can be at a minimum. Aside from native plants and the pollinators that are attracted to them, I would tell them to attract birds by providing a full time source of water, ensure there are conifers nearby for bird shelter and provide food via those native plants and bird feeders. Before starting up a planting project, develop a plan, read up on species available, and consider what you want to accomplish via the plantings. Also visit a variety of yards and find out what is practical for your home considering the area you live in.