By Gillian Rozicer. Photography by Jeannette Michelson
Native New Jersey plants offer numerous incredible benefits, including improved environmental health, reduced maintenance, and support for wildlife. Plants native to Long Beach Island are adapted to local coastal conditions, requiring less water, fertilizer, and pest control. They provide food and shelter for native birds, insects, bees, butterflies, and local wildlife. Many native plants are stunning in their presentation of fragrance and color all year.
On March 27, more than twenty LBI residents launched the first native wildflower garden on the median strip of North Beach. The flowers and grasses will be a highly visible tribute to all the benefits and beauty of native plantings. The intent is to add more gardens in North Beach and to inspire homeowners and other townships to follow.
Long Beach Township Commissioner Al Meehan and Bill Walsh, president of the North Beach Taxpayers Association, the garden’s sponsor, broke ground for the 15 x 30 garden. Gillian Rozicer, vice president of NBTPA created the project and enlisted the help of landscapers Dan Hoch and Jason Austin, and Garden Club member and Master Gardener Debra Cowles.
The native plants in the North Beach Garden were selected to flourish in LBI’s natural coastal barrier island region. Add a few to your own garden and make a difference.
