Cradle Project Update

Significant progress has been made on the landscape renovation. The team has successfully removed invasive species from the planting beds, including Vinca minor and Pachysandra japonica, making way for native plants to thrive. During removal, an exciting discovery was made! Pachysandra procumbens (Allegheny spurge) was uncovered in the space and unlike its invasive Asian counterpart, this species is a rare and native woodland groundcover, making its presence a special find and a testament to the ecological value of this site.

Mulch has been added to all planting beds to retain moisture, suppress weeds, and protect establishing native species. The first phase of native plantings is now in the ground, with each species chosen for the unique role it plays in the ecosystem:

• Goldenrod (Solidago spp.): A powerhouse for pollinators, goldenrod supports over 100 species of bees and countless butterflies and moths, making it one of the most ecologically valuable native wildflowers.

• Native Aster (Symphyotrichum sp.): Blooming late into the season, native asters provide a critical nectar source for migrating monarchs and other pollinators when few other flowers remain.

•  Mountain Laurel (Kalmia latifolia): A native evergreen shrub that offers year-round structure and shelter for wildlife while its spring blooms support native bees with a unique pollen-dispersal mechanism.

• Serviceberry (Amelanchier arborea): One of the first plants to bloom in spring, serviceberry provides early nectar for pollinators and nutrient-rich berries that are a vital food source for migratory birds.

•  Flowering Dogwood (Cornus florida): A keystone understory tree that produces berries high in fat content, critical for fueling songbirds during fall migration, while also supporting over 100 species of moths and butterflies.

• Evening Primrose (Oenothera biennis): Its large, night-blooming flowers are specially adapted to attract sphinx moths, filling an important ecological niche for nocturnal pollinators.

• Pinxterbloom Azalea (Rhododendron periclymenoides): A native azalea that provides one of the earliest spring nectar sources for long-tongued bumblebees and hummingbirds emerging from winter.

• Black-eyed Susan (Rudbeckia hirta): A prolific bloomer that attracts a wide range of bees, butterflies, and beneficial insects, while its seed heads feed goldfinches and other songbirds through winter.

• Sweet Shrub (Calycanthus floridus): Its uniquely fragrant flowers attract specialist pollinators, and its dense branching provides excellent nesting cover and habitat for small wildlife.

• Hearts-a-Bustin' (Euonymus americanus): A native understory shrub whose striking red seed capsules are a favorite of songbirds, while its foliage supports several native moth species.

Phase two is on the horizon, with even more native species to be added in the coming weeks!

The Cradle of Forestry in America has long been a place where conservation and education come to life, and this garden is the newest chapter in that legacy. As the plants take root and the seasons unfold, this space will transform into a living, breathing showcase of the Southern Appalachian ecosystem. Whether you're a lifelong naturalist or simply someone who appreciates the beauty of the natural world, there has never been a better reason to come experience the Cradle. Come walk the grounds, discover what's blooming, and witness this landscape come alive — we can't wait to share it with y'all!