Flora for Fauna - About Us

THE NURSERY:

Flora for Fauna started WAY back in 1990, when butterfly gardening was becoming popular. It was a learn as you go operation. Initially, we searched for plants that attracted nectaring butterflies and began learning about butterfly host plants. We found that most of the plant species those 2 processes led us to were species native to the northeastern United States. Before we realized it was happening (AND before native plant gardening became popular), we found that we were growing about 90% native species.

Since those early days, we have focused on native species. We still grow a few non-native species but those species have to fit within two criterea:

the species must not spread into wild areas
it also must have a strong value to wildlife

Almost all the plants offered for sale have been produced at the nursery from seeds or cuttings from plants in our gardens. Occasionally, we purchase seedings from seedling nurseries but that is the exception.

We are constantly searching for new native plant species that fit our criteria of providing food and/or shelter for butterflies and birds.

THE OWNER/OPERATORS

Karen Williams - grows and cares for the plants, both in the garden and the nursery. While she has a degree in biology, she taught herself about habitat gardening and native plants. While hiking and birding in natural areas she began observing plants....the conditions where they were growing.....what kinds of organism were using them etc. The learning continued when plants were planted in the nursery gardens.

Karen uses that knowledge to help nursery customers plan their own habitat gardens and select the best plants for particular sites. As her customers return, they share information about how the plants fare in their gardens, which helps her better advise her customers.

Paul Kosten - married to Karen, he takes care of many of the behind the scenes chores involved with keeping the nursery going. He mows the grass, takes care of the bird feeders, repairs broken equipment and more.

Additionally, Paul orients customers and keeps things moving smoothly during nursery open house plant sales.