Why do we garden? Is it only for beauty and to enhance the curb appeal of houses? Or does the garden also play a role in the local ecology? More and more people are coming to realize that our yards can provide sustenance to wildlife, from butterflies to birds and more, without sacrificing aesthetics. A yard landscaped with well-chosen native plants can not only look good but also provide unparalleled habitat value. Come to this talk to learn the basics of habitat gardening and which native plants in our area are particularly suited for attracting birds and butterflies. A plant list will be available.

A software engineer by training, Arvind Kumar has been growing native plants in his home garden in San Jose for 22 years. He coordinates volunteer workdays at the 2-acre Native Garden in Lake Cunningham Park. He is a board member and former president of our CNPS Chapter.