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Design and build your own backyard prairie [UPDATED]
Published 5:23am Monday, January 21, 2013 Updated 7:32am Monday, January 21, 2013The Friends of the Prairie Wetlands Learning Center invites the public to learn how to design a small prairie with ecology and beauty in mind.
From 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Saturday, Feb. 2, participants can learn how to design a small prairie on their own property in a free workshop. According to PWLC, small prairie landscapes planted on city lots, suburban properties or rural estates can be functional, environmentally friendly and beautiful.
The workshop will be divided into two sections. Class instructor Craig Johnson, Professor Emeritus, will offer assistance and advice during the design process.
Participants are asked to bring a map of the area they want to plant, drawn to scale. For planting areas of 2,000 square feet or less use a scale of one quarter of an inch equals one foot or one inch equals four feet. For larger areas use a scale of one eighth of an inch equals one foot or one inch equals 10 feet. Indicate the direction of north on the map and estimate the percentage of slope, if any, across the planting area. Also add a note that describes the general characteristics of the soil, such as sandy, sandy loam, or clay.
Participants are encouraged to bring photos of the planting area and adjunct buildings, and make a few notes their planned prarie.
Drawing materials and rulers will be provided. Handouts will include plant lists, plants for humming birds and butterflies and a list of useful references.
Registration for the Designing a Prairie workshop is requested. Please call 218-870-4481 to register. Participants should bring a sack lunch. Beverages will be provided.
