Phenology: Nature's Living Timeline

Introduction

Every native garden tells a story—one that unfolds with the seasons.

   Phenology is the science of seasonal timing: when flowers bloom, when insects emerge, and when birds raise their young. But it’s more than a calendar—it’s a living network of interdependence.

   In Maryland’s native ecosystems, early spring flowers feed emerging queen bees. Summer blossoms host butterflies and their caterpillars. Meanwhile, songbirds time their nesting to match the peak of insect life—because even seed-eaters raise their young on insects.

In this section, we explore these relationships through dynamic time-lapse movies based on real native plant gardens across Maryland. You’ll see how native plants support pollinators and birds—not just in general, but month by month.

What You’ll Discover

• Which native plants bloom when—and why that matters

• How insect broods align with specific flowers

• Which birds time their nesting to these patterns

• Why phenology is critical in the face of climate change

How to Explore

• Watch TimeLapse Garden Movies showing blooms, bees, and birds through the seasons

• Browse by garden template, region, or ecosystem type

• Learn how to design your own patch for maximum seasonal support