Frequently Asked Questions

How is a habitat different than a flower garden?
A flower garden is primarily designed for aesthetic enjoyment and may not support local wildlife. Additionally, flower gardens often include species that are not native to our area and may require maintenance to survive. Habitats are primarily native plants that thrive without help, and provide food, shelter, and nesting areas for local pollinator insects like birds, bees and butterflies.

Does the habitat cost a lot to maintain?
The habitat saves Walnut Grove over $3,000 annually compared to the cost of mowing grass. Because the plants are native to Indiana, very little maintenance is required for them to thrive. Each year, a part of the habitat will be mowed to spread flower seeds, and saplings will be removed by volunteers supervised by the Habitat Committee.

What can I do in the habitat?
The habitat is a great place to take photographs, listen to songbirds, go for walks, and just sit in nature to relax and rejuvenate. In the future, we expect to see paths, benches and signage pointing out the natural features.