Date:  June 28, 2013  |   Producer: Tiffany Burgess Adams and Rosemary Hallmark  |  

Why They Planted Green

“Because native plants are adapted to the local conditions, they’re better able to withstand drought, heat, freezing and pests. They don’t require fertilizer and many don’t need to be watered even during droughts. Most importantly, native insects are tied to native plants. When native plant species disappear, the insects disappear, thus impoverishing the food supply for birds and other animals. We love providing food for birds and butterflies.” —Dan Scheiman, Homeowner 

How They Did It

Samantha and Dan Scheiman consider themselves lucky to have purchased their home from expert botanist Theo Witsell of the Arkansas Natural Heritage Commission. The yard was well-established with eight years of native plant growth, and the Scheimans picked up where Witsell left off by maintaining and adding to the gardens. In addition to the lush backyard, the couple added a rain garden and dry creek bed at the front of the house to slow the flow of rainwater from a downspout. The bed reduces erosion and percolates water into the ground, rather than into a storm drain. The Scheimans purchase native plants at suppliers such as Pine Ridge Gardens in Russellville and New South Nursery in Little Rock, and encourage Arkansans to request native plants at their favorite nurseries around the state. 

Tips from the Pros

“Some of our native wildflowers are striking and spectacular but a lot of these plants are disappearing in the wild because of changes in land use and urban sprawl. By planting them in our yards, people can conserve them. These are our heritage—if we lose them, they are gone forever.” —Tom Frothingham, New South Nursery

What Makes It Green 

Rain barrels

All plants are native to Arkansas

No pesticides used

Weeds are hand-pulled

Mulch retains soil moisture and reduces weeds

Compost pile for food scraps, yard waste and more

Rain garden and dry creek bed 

Organic vegetable garden

Bird feeders and bath to attract feathered friends

Parachute cords hung on the windows prevent bird collisions