This spring and summer, Sophia’s House will be landscaping the yard around the newly opened house. The gardens will feature native plantings that are bird and pollinator friendly. The hope is that the gardens will serve as a demonstration project for what is possible, even in our urban setting, and that the new gardens will become a place of beauty, learning and healing for those who live in the neighborhood. The garden project has been made possible through the encouragement, and a generous gift from Barbara and Richard Trafton, in memory of their daughter, Margaret Grace Trafton, who loved the outdoors and nature.

To kick off the growing season, Sophia’s House in partnership with “Lots to Gardens” will host Eric Topper, Director of Education for Maine Audubon for a program called “Bringing Nature Home.” The program is Maine Audubon’s new community engagement and habitat stewardship initiative based on the bestselling book of that title by Doug Tallamy. Eric will explore the plants, practices and perks involved in restoring native food webs in our gardens, yards and communities.

Like many places, the landscapes and ecology in the more developed parts of Maine have changed dramatically. Today, gardens, yards, neighborhoods and towns are playing increasingly critical roles in supporting native food webs for birds, pollinators and other wildlife. Our individual efforts to support wildlife can be both intimately rewarding and broadly beneficial.

With an overall focus on Maine birds and their habitats, Eric will introduce what individuals and groups can do to help create a native landscape, including what plants to choose and how to manage and maintain our gardens for their full ecological function and benefit. He will also discuss the large selection of beautiful native flowers, shrubs and trees that can be incorporated into yards to attract and support a multitude of birds, butterflies and other interesting native wildlife.

Spring is just around the bend… Sophia’s House is inviting volunteers to assist with the landscaping project, beginning with preparing the ground starting in April, and planting in late May through June. If you have time and expertise to share, you will have the opportunity to sign up that evening.

Join us for an evening of learning and light refreshments. There is no charge for attendance, but guests are invited to bring contributions of hygiene items (full size, unopened containers only please) for the hygiene pantry at The Center for Wisdom’s Women. Most needed are shampoo, conditioner, deodorant, toothpaste. Herban Works products will be available for sale at the event.