By Dante Thorne

The selection of native plant species around Holy Blossom’s grounds are intended to be a boon for local pollinating insects and a refreshing visual treat for visitors and passersby alike.

The wild bergamot (Monarda fistulosa) not only boasts striking clusters of lavender flowers but also supports essential pollinators like bees and butterflies. Nearby, the Virginia mountain mint releases a refreshing aroma while acting as a natural insect repellent for the less friendly types are critters we see around here.

Complementing these choices, (one of my personal favourites) the pearly everlasting, adds an elegant touch with its everlasting blooms, while the bold black-eyed Susan, forms a vital part of the local food web. Towering above, the purple hyssop, completes the picture with its vibrant spikes of purple, drawing in bees with its nectar-rich flowers.

It’s been fun watching our kids leaving school for the day stop to watch all the butterflies that have now become commonplace flit around from blossom to blossom each day. We look forward to populating even more spaces around the Temple next spring.

"Our Garden” was made possible by the generosity of a TD FEF grant, through Faith & the Common Good, as well as by donations from Scott’s Canada mulch and soil. Thank you!"