What my Kentucky native garden has taught me about creating the conditions for healing
If you’ve visited my office, you’ve probably noticed that my yard looks a little different than most.
Instead of a traditional landscape, it’s planted almost entirely with Kentucky native plants. Over the years, many of you have asked about the flowers, the butterflies, and where I find my plants, so I thought I’d share a little about one of my favorite hobbies.
Working in my garden is one of the ways I recharge. Whether I’m pulling weeds, planting something new, or simply sitting outside watching bees and butterflies move from flower to flower, I always leave feeling calmer than when I started. It reminds me to slow down, pay attention, and appreciate the beauty that’s right in front of me.
My Favorite Place for Native Plants
If you’ve ever considered adding native plants to your own yard, I can’t recommend Dropseed Native Plant Nursery enough.
One of the things I appreciate most is that Margaret, the owner, will actually come to your home, walk your property with you, and create a customized planting plan based on your sun, shade, soil, and goals. It takes the guesswork out of getting started.
I found this service invaluable, especially in the beginning, and it’s surprisingly affordable. Once you have your plan, you can purchase the plants from Dropseed and install them yourself at your own pace.
I’ve also found their native plants to be among the most reasonably priced in our area.
Nature Has Its Own Pest Control
Like any gardener, I’ve had plants that struggled or were attacked by insects.
Instead of reaching for pesticides, I turn to Idlewild Butterfly Farm.
If you’re having problems with your plants, they’ll help identify what’s going on and recommend beneficial insects that naturally restore balance in your garden. Ladybugs, lacewings, and other helpful insects often solve the problem while protecting pollinators and the rest of your landscape.
I love this approach because it works with nature instead of against it.
A Lesson That Extends Beyond the Garden
One of the biggest lessons gardening has taught me is that healthy things grow when we create the right conditions.
You can’t force a flower to bloom.
You prepare the soil.
You provide water.
You give it sunlight.
Then you trust the process.
I think our bodies and minds work much the same way.
Massage, EFT tapping, time in nature, quality sleep, nourishing food, movement, meaningful relationships, and moments of quiet all help create an environment where healing can happen.
Healing isn’t about forcing our way through life.
It’s about creating the conditions where we can thrive.
I hope you’re finding time this summer to spend a few quiet moments outside. Maybe you’ll notice a butterfly, hear a bird you’ve never paid attention to before, or simply enjoy the peace that comes from slowing down.
Sometimes healing begins with something as simple as a garden.
Warmly,
Kimberly
Massage Is Healing for Everyone