Fayette County, Georgia
Habitat Restoration
Creating the conditions for ecosystem recovery.
Landscapes
Developing beautiful habitats in fragmented landscapes.
Parks & Nature Areas
Creating conservation-minded spaces that encourage discovery, physical activity, and leisure.
Arboriculture & Tree Services
Encouraging the development of healthy trees through proper planting and maintenance.
Featured Project
Project Summary
The main homeowner goal of the project was to reduce maintenance and herbicide use by using native grasses and perennials. Weeds and turfgrasses were removed and 60+ native plants were installed. These natives will grow and self-seed, filling the space and creating a pollinator and bird-friendly landscape. Soaker hoses were installed for irrigation while the plants establish or for use during drought. This front yard was designed to create symmetry and provide structure using native sun-loving plants. As the new plants grow, spread, and with a little maintenance will out-compete invasive plants. This fall shrubs and trees will be installed to finish the space and create a native habitat in the Southern outer piedmont of Georgia.
Summer
Native Plant & Animal of the Season
Black-eyed Susan
Viceroy
Botanical Name: Rudbeckia hirtia
Range: Throughout the southeast (Zones 3-8)
Soil: Water well until fully established.
Water Requirements: Low but not drought-proof.
Light Requirements: Does best in full sun.
General Description: Found in meadows, pastures, and old fields throughout the southeast. This plant is commonly found in nurseries and makes an excellent addition to residential landscapes. Deadhead the flowers if you want to prevent additional plants. This native perennial is clump forming reaching 2’-4’ tall. Large yellow daisy-like flowers are produced throughout the summer and into the fall. This plant will self-seed if the birds don’t eat the seeds first.
References:
Mellichamp, L. (2014). Native plants of the southeast. Timber Press, Portland, OR.
Chafin, L. G., Nourse, C., & Nourse, H. O. (2016). Field guide to the wildflowers of Georgia and surrounding states. The University of Georgia Press.
Common Name: Viceroy
Scientific Name: Limenitis archippus
Range & Habitat: Wet habitats throughout the United States..
General description: This native pollinator starts as a white and olive-brown caterpillar resembling bird droppings. The caterpillar eats poplar and willow foliage. The butterfly is brownish orange with blue-black markings. The coloration of the Viceroy mimics the monarch butterfly. This mimicry protects birds who have tried eating the poisonous monarch.
References:
Knopf, M., & Knopf, M. (1980). The Audubon field guide to North American spiders and insects. Chanticleer Press, Inc. New York, New York.
Welcome to Bluestem
We’re passionate about ecological restoration and native landscaping. Our team specializes in creating beautiful, sustainable outdoor spaces that are as good for the environment as they are for the eye. Whether you’re a homeowner or represent a city or town, we’re here to help you bring your outdoor vision to life.
At Bluestem, we’re proud to work with native plants and environmentally-friendly practices to create thriving ecosystems that are not only beautiful but also functional. From design to installation, we’re committed to exceeding your expectations every step of the way.