Kathy McDonald of Miami Heights developed an interest in gardening because of her love for birds and nature. Learning that she could identify birds by the habitat in which they live, preserving wildlife habitats became important to her, even in her back yard.

        A year ago, she helped create the Cincinnati Chapter of the Wild Ones Natural Landscapers, a national non-profit organization that seeks to teach others to promote biodiversity and environmentally sound gardening practices by using native plants.

        As green space disappears, it is heartening to know that gardeners can provide habitat and food sources for birds and butterflies. Birds are being compromised by pesticide use and the loss of habitat and in the Tristate, more than 110 species of birds are being impacted by the West Nile virus, Ms. McDonald says.

        Debi Wolterman, another member of Wild Ones, says the group is interested in changing the accepted model of landscaping from “lawn-centric” to “life-centric.” With the right balance of native plants, your yard can come alive with birds and butterflies, she says.

        Tired of cutting grass and preferring a natural approach to gardening, Ms. Wolterman uses native wild flowers and grasses. With native plants there is less need for herbicides and pesticides, she says.

        Wild Ones' volunteer activities have included installing a native plant garden at the New School in North Avondale and presentations at libraries, schools and civic groups.

        The Wild Ones will meet noon today at Ohio River Grass, 220 Wenner St. in the East End (871-1158). Tour five acres of ponds, perennials and many native grasses. For more information about Wild Ones: 941-6497; www.for-wild.org.

        The largest grower of containerized native plants in the United States is Earthscapes, 10403 Ohio 48, Loveland. The wholesale nursery is open to the public. 683-0144.

        Contact Peg St. Clair by phone: 541-4680; Web site: www.gardenersnetwork.org.

Tale of two home tours
Hayseed Dixie show goes haywire
MOREHOUSE: 'Paul Neyron' rose blooms large
Get to it
Orchids require extra care
Wildlife habitat develops in city
Conifers keep yard evergreen
Gardener to gardener
Gardening things to do this week
In The Know