The Laurelwood Garden Club is celebrating a numerically unremarkable milestone this year - its 62nd anniversary - but with it comes a remarkable opportunity to reflect on the lasting impact this dedicated group has made on our community. For more than six decades, Laurelwood has quietly but consistently worked behind the scenes to enhance the beauty of Lookout Mountain, enrich local spaces, and bring neighbors together through a shared appreciation of nature.
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One of the garden club’s most cherished traditions is the annual holiday mailbox decoration project. Each festive season, mailboxes throughout the community are adorned with greenery, ribbons, and creative touches that reflect the warmth and spirit of the holidays. The club extends its heartfelt gratitude to the many residents who help make this tradition possible by helping to assemble decorations, offering cutting locations, or proudly displaying the finished arrangements. It is this spirit of participation that makes this tradition so special.

Beyond seasonal projects, the Laurelwood Garden Club has played a vital role in the ongoing beautification of our community. Members work to maintain the Ochs’ Highway Triangle, plant flowers along the Navarre Pavilion, and ensure that common areas remain inviting and vibrant. Revitalization of the Watauga strip, including the maintenance of several memorial trees and stones, is an upcoming focus for the club.

Equally important is Laurelwood’s partnership with both Lookout Mountain School and Fairyland Elementary School. Recognizing that the future of any community lies in its younger generations, the garden club has made it a priority each year to donate to general beautification and special landscape projects via each school’s respective PTA/PTO organization.

As the club celebrates 62 years of service, it is also embracing the future and supporting the evolving landscape of the greater Chattanooga area. This year’s programming has spotlighted local women-owned businesses, many with strong ties to Lookout Mountain. Events have included a party-planning workshop with Alicyn York of Allora Creative; a wine-tasting evening hosted by Yancey Martin and Sarah Zane Moore Gomoll at Mosaic Home & Market; and support for a local business launch by Taylor Traglia Stephenson at Understory Tea House, where the club created its own herbal tea blend. The calendar also features visits to Crabtree Farms, a local garden tour, and regular meetings designed to strengthen community connections.

Looking ahead, the Laurelwood Garden Club remains focused on its mission of beautification and community engagement. A partnership with the Lookout Mountain Conservancy to revitalize the Sims Garden on McFarland Avenue is a longer-term joint commitment at a beautiful and historic property in our community. 
With continued support from residents and new generations stepping forward to become involved, the club is well-positioned to carry its legacy into the future. There is always more to plant, more to improve and more opportunities to bring people together through shared purpose.

As Emily Askew looks ahead to her role as the 2026–2027 president, she shares, “I am thrilled to continue the Laurelwood Garden Club’s long-standing traditions while introducing progressive and meaningful programs for our members. If you’re seeking community and connection while supporting the beautification of our mountain, we would love for you to join us.”

Here’s to 62 years of growth, beauty, and community - and to many more seasons of blooming success.

by Anna Lee Jones

Our area is renowned for its natural beauty: waterfalls and creeks, shady hikes, and views. For those of us who are lucky enough to call the Tennessee Valley home, the spring season is an ideal time to both enjoy our surroundings and consider how our choices fit into the bigger picture.
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To anyone who gardens in any capacity at all, I say good on you! Taking pride in a plot of land and improving it with labor and love is an act of care that brings us closer to the earth.

But before you plant that first plug of impatiens or another exotic annual, here’s a friendly question I think worth asking: Why not plant native this spring? The plants we cultivate need not be merely ornamental. Many species of trees, shrubs, and flowers have grown here for millennia, co-evolving and living interdependently with native birds, pollinators, and wildlife that also belong here. Together, they form the base of a much larger ecological web. By choosing what we grow with care, each of us has the opportunity to contribute to the health and resilience of that system.

It doesn’t have to be all or nothing; choosing to plant native doesn’t mean forsaking your beloved zinnias. Even a few native perennials tucked into a border, a pollinator patch near the patio, or a native shrub in place of a generic hedge can make a difference. Think of it as making room for nature to come closer, one plant at a time.

Not all non-native plants are harmful, but some invasive species are worth knowing and avoiding. Developers and big-box garden retailers often favor exotic species because they perform predictably across many regions, even though they offer little to no benefits to local ecosystems. Choose American holly over nandina for the birds. Nandina is toxic to birds and pets. Such invasive plants can spread aggressively and crowd out native plants in nearby woods, fields, and roadsides. If each of us planted with wildlife in mind, we would strengthen the pollinator pathway. Also, keeping invasives out of our landscapes helps protect the natural beauty that drew many of us to live here in the first place.

Native plants can be propagated by taking stem cuttings or dividing established plants. Better by far, visit Signal Mountain Nursery’s or Reflection Riding’s native collections, where plants are homegrown.

Tucked into an area of the mountain called Fairmont, this family-owned, world class, (judged by sensory appeal and visitor experience) garden center covers over 12 acres, and has more than 45 green houses. Signal Mountain Nursery is a true destination.

The roots of the nursery actually go back to a ship returning from England during WWII, where Ben Addie met Scotty Parry, a Brit. They were very taken with each other, and when the war ended, they married, and launched Parry Nursery on Signal Mountain in 1947. Their daughter, Laurel Parry Steele, and her husband, David Steele, returned to Signal Mountain when Scotty died.

In 1977, Parry Nursery became Signal Mountain Nursery under the ownership of Laurel and David. Today, their daughter, Kim and her husband, Mark Bonastia, are the managers. Celebrating its 79th anniversary this month, the nursery still sees many customers and visitors in every season who come if only to breathe in the beauty and seek inspiration for their own gardens.

Most of the knowledge and everything else you need to grow a garden is here. If a really enjoyable read is wanting, check out Doug Tallamy’s “Bringing Nature Home” or for more inspiration, almost anything by Wendell Berry or Robin Wall Kimmerer at Signal Mountain Library.

by Jane Lemoine

​As an avid gardener, winter is hard. The days are short, and it’s difficult to feel motivated when everything outside is dark and gloomy. My brain can’t quite reconcile what I see through my windows on a bright, sunny day with what my body feels when I actually step out into the cold. There are so few projects to tackle in the yard this time of year, but that doesn’t stop me from daydreaming about spring and planning for beautiful summer blooms. And while I might decide to put my pajamas on at 5 p.m. (no judgment, please), I can still be a productive gardener indoors by starting seeds.
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While it may seem daunting, starting seeds inside is a great way to get a jump start on spring. It’s also a way to save money by growing your own plants instead of purchasing individual seedlings in April and May, and it gives you the opportunity to try unusual varieties you won’t find at local box stores or garden centers. This indoor gardening project keeps me connected to the outdoors even when the dreariness of winter feels overwhelming.

So where do you begin? January brings a flood of seed catalogs to my mailbox. If you’re not inundated the way I am, a few quick Google searches will uncover a treasure trove of seed options. One of my favorite sources is “The Whole Seed Catalog.” This massive catalog rivals the heft of the Sears catalog from my childhood. And just like when I was a kid poring over toy pages before Christmas, I devour every page, admiring the stunning photography of rare flowers and vegetables from around the world.

The catalog is published once a year by Baker Creek Heirloom Seed Company and features varieties beyond anything I could dream up: five-foot-long string beans; cabbage heads larger than your own; and flowers in every color and form imaginable. I’ve ordered from them for years with great success. Locally, you can often find the catalog at Tractor Supply, or you can order directly from their website at rareseeds.com.

I also love Johnny’s Seeds. Their expansive selection makes it easy to imagine the perfect vegetable or flower garden, and they provide some of the best seed-starting information available. Each packet includes detailed instructions that set you up for success from start to finish. You can explore their offerings at johnnyseeds.com.

There are countless other seed sources worth exploring as well. Some of my favorites include Swallowtail Garden Seeds, Floret, Botanical Interests, and Totally Tomatoes. Each offers a unique selection of hard-to-find varieties. Of course, local garden centers and box stores are great options for more common seeds too.
Once you’ve scoured catalogs and websites and ordered more seeds than you could possibly plant (don’t worry - we all do this), it’s time to get your hands dirty. What do you need? There are many ways to start seeds, but the most common - and my go-to method - is using seed-starting trays and soil. You can also try winter sowing, which involves planting seeds in milk jugs and leaving them outdoors for the winter months. I’ve had mixed results with this method, though I’ll admit any failures were likely due to my own neglect. For those who want to dive deeper, you can create your own soil blends or try soil blocking. While that might interest me more if I had a greenhouse, I stick to what’s quick, cost-effective, and manageable. Once you purchase seed trays, they can be reused year after year, leaving seeds and soil as your only ongoing expenses.

Let’s talk soil. Seed-starting soil is different from potting soil or garden soil. It’s lighter and loftier, with more peat to allow for excellent drainage and easy root growth. This is one area where you shouldn’t compromise. I don’t have a brand I’m loyal to and often grab whatever is available at Walmart. Pre-moistening your soil before filling your trays is highly recommended. This prevents newly planted seeds from “floating” when watered. Simply add soil to a watertight container - I use a shallow plastic tub - and slowly mix in water until the soil holds together slightly when squeezed. You’re aiming for moist, not muddy.

Always follow the planting instructions on seed packets. Some seeds need light to germinate, while others must be covered with soil. Some require heat, in which case a heat mat placed under the trays can be helpful. Seeds only need bottom heat during germination; once seedlings emerge, the heat mat should be turned off. A humidity dome is beneficial for nearly all seeds during germination, as it helps retain warmth and moisture. Once seedlings appear, remove the dome.

Water and light are the two most important factors for healthy seedlings. Keep soil moist but not oversaturated during germination, then reduce watering slightly as plants grow. When the first set of true leaves appears, adding a half-strength liquid fertilizer once a week will encourage strong root development. Daily monitoring is essential. Bright light is equally important. I’m fortunate to have a sunroom with excellent winter light, but I’ve also invested in grow lights as my seed-starting operation has expanded. These lights
allow me to grow seedlings in any room of the house, and built-in timers ensure consistent light each day.
Once seedlings are established, placing an oscillating fan nearby can be very beneficial. The gentle movement mimics wind, encouraging plants to develop strong stems. Continuous air circulation also helps prevent fungal growth on soil surfaces that remain damp for extended periods.

While all of these steps may sound overwhelming, there’s nothing quite like seeing the first hint of green push through the soil - and watching each day as you nurture new life that will eventually find its place in your garden come spring.

by Julie Novak

As the days grow shorter and cooler, our gardens begin to drift toward hibernation - much like many animals do. While growth above ground slows and plants die back, there is still plenty of activity happening beneath the soil as roots continue to strengthen. Autumn may appear to be a quiet season in the garden, but it’s actually one of the best times to tackle projects before winter sets in.

Planting Season
Fall is the ideal time for planting. Our region’s consistent moisture and moderate temperatures create perfect conditions for establishing new additions to your garden. Trees and shrubs, in particular, focus their energy on developing strong root systems this time of year rather than on leaves and blooms. Perennials benefit as well, even if the results won’t be immediately visible. Remember to water new plantings if rainfall is scarce - about once a week without rain, even when it’s cool.

Bulbs for Spring
Autumn is also bulb-planting season, an affordable way to make a big impact come spring. Bulbs can be found at garden centers, box stores, and even grocery stores. For a wider selection, websites such as Eden Brothers and ColorBlends offer excellent quality.

Bulbs are particularly useful in spots where other plants struggle, such as beneath trees. With the leaves off, these areas often receive just enough sun for early bloomers like tulips, daffodils, hyacinths, and crocus. If deer are a problem, daffodils are a reliable choice. Popular varieties for naturalizing include the cheerful, multi-stemmed Tête-à-Tête (early spring), the classic Mount Hood and Dutch Master (mid-spring), the fragrant white Thalia (late spring), and the sturdy, late-blooming Actaea. Be sure to plant them in areas where you don’t mind the foliage lingering into early summer; daffodils need several weeks of green leaves after flowering to store energy for the next year’s blooms.

Fall Cleanup
Many perennials can be left standing through winter, providing food and habitat for birds and wildlife. However, some plants are best cleaned up in the fall. Once leaves yellow and flop, daylilies, iris, and hosta should be cut back to prevent pests and disease. Plants showing signs of powdery mildew or other issues should also be trimmed and their foliage removed. Additionally, cut back any aggressive plants that have gone to seed if you don’t want them spreading.

Leave the Leaves - With Care
The “Leave the Leaves” movement is gaining popularity, and with good reason. Decomposing leaves enrich the soil, suppress weeds, and provide habitat for pollinators and other wildlife - all while reducing yard waste. However, avoid letting thick layers accumulate, as they can encourage mold, fungi, and pests like slugs, snails, and ticks. Rake leaves away from delicate shrubs, and always remove leaves from diseased plants.

Tool Maintenance
Fall is also the perfect time to service your garden tools before putting them away for the winter. Clean and sharpen pruners, loppers, and other hand tools so they’re ready for pruning in late winter and spring.

A Season of Preparation
Cooler temperatures make fall a joy to spend outdoors. A little time invested in your garden now will pay off with healthier plants and vibrant blooms when spring arrives.
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by Julie Novak

I’m hoping I don’t need to introduce Dr. Doug Tallamy to you. The renowned entomologist, ecologist and speaker is the go-to guy on the importance of native plants in sustaining wildlife. And, I’m hoping I don’t need to explain the fact that 75% of our crops rely on pollinators. Three-quarters of our food! That is a worldwide statistic.

The majority of these crucial pollinators are creatures we actually try to extinguish: bees, wasps, beetles, flies, ants, bats and butterflies … well, maybe not butterflies but definitely there are products on the market that promise to get rid of all the others.

Over the past three decades, our insect populations have decreased. And this will lead to dire consequences to life as we know it.

But all is not lost. Dr. Doug Tallamy has big ideas and easy ways for us all to join together and make a difference.

The author of “The Living Landscape,” “The Nature of Oaks,” “Bringing Nature Home,” and “Nature’s Best Hope,” he recently released “How Can I Help?” In this book about saving nature with your very own yard, he addresses topics that include everything from ecology, evolution, biodiversity and conservation to restoration, native plants, invasive species, pest control, and supporting wildlife at home. The professor and chair of the Department of Entomology and Wildlife Ecology at the University of Delaware, this man is dead set on teaching us all how we can save our planet, our fragile island home.

Yes, he is an acclaimed scientist and is familiar with precise scientific terms that are for the most part unpronouncable. Does he throw these terms around? Nope.

I’ve never met this man, a true rock star in my opinion, but I’ve watched a few of his interviews and presentations online. He is the kind of guy you’d like to have a beer with and chat longer with.

According to Amazon, “Douglas W. Tallamy’s first book, “Bringing Nature Home,” awakened thousands of readers to an urgent situation: wildlife populations are in decline because the native plants they depend on are fast disappearing. His solution? Plant more natives.”

And he gently outlines and simplifies a way for all of us to turn our yards into “conservation corridors” that provide wildlife habitats. In fact, you don’t even have to have a yard to make a difference. Just swap out that geranium that never looks that good anyway with a gorgeous native plant that will provide sustenance for wildlife.

Because this approach relies on something so simple, it is immune from the whims of government policy. Even more important, it’s practical, effective, and easy; you will walk away with specific suggestions you can incorporate into your own yard.

Remember I mentioned I’d never met this hero of a man? Well, he’s coming to Chattanooga, thanks to the Tennessee valley Chapter of the Wild Ones! Dr. Tallamy will speak on Friday, October 3, at UTC’s Wolford Family Athletic Center at 720 E. 4th Street. He will begin at 7 p.m. and although this event is free and open to the public, you need to register. Go to https://tnvalley.wildones.org/distinguished-lecture-series-doug-tallamy/ for more information.
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by Ferris Robinson

The Lookout Mountain Beautiful Garden Club inspired students at Fairyland Elementary School and Lookout Mountain School to explore the life cycle and migration of the monarch butterfly through a “Monarchs Over the Mountains” poster contest in September. Each fall, monarchs migrate over the mountain seeking nectar on their journey to hibernation sites in central Mexico. Students learned about native flowers and host plants essential for the butterflies’ 1,700-mile journey to the oyamel fir forest near Zitacuaro, Mexico. The contest fostered student curiosity, research and artistic expression, teaching students how to protect these delicate creatures and their habitat.

Fairyland Elementary School teacher Delin Brown, along with Taryn Yorba, STEM teacher, and art teacher Leila Vaughn, guided students through the learning process. The winners from each grade are Lillian Otto, kindergarten, Vivian Jones, first grade, Makenna Kellum, second grade Jayden Marshall and Boyd Smith, third grade, Hazel Baldschun, fourth grade, and Ava Gardner, fifth grade.

Lookout Mountain School art teacher Ryan Patterson chose these fourth grade students as winners: Eleanor Gerwin, Zoe Shepard and Lily Gray Frick. These students each received a certificate and a blue ribbon to acknowledge their achievement. Congratulations to all of these very talented students.

by Ann Brown

I never really knew there was an official butterfly count in North America each year. I probably should have because I am very aware that the birds and pollinators are in a serious decline; I just never considered how this fact was established. The purpose of the North American Butterfly Association’s counts are to determine how many species and individual butterflies can be observed within a 15-mile diameter circle, during a 24-hour period, within the same date-span year after year. Butterfly declines are an early warning for other wildlife losses, which is why tracking numbers as part of the Big Butterfly Count will help scientists understand wider changes in the environment and take action for protecting butterflies and other wildlife. These tiny fluttering creatures are giving us a heads up on what’s going on with our planet.

I am very interested in butterflies and want to learn more about them, but to say I am a novice is an understatement. I can barely identify a single one. Regardless, when Karen Persinger of Rising Fawn Gardens asked if I wanted to participate in the count along with photographer/naturalist Mike O’Brien, I immediately jumped at the chance. Turns out, there are about 450 of these official butterfly counts all over the United States, Mexico and Canada. Groups of people volunteer to spend a couple of hours in a certain area and wander around counting these tiny creatures.

The day for our count was lovely. Despite it falling on the last week of traditionally sweltering August, this particular day was sunny and mild, with blue skies and a gentle breeze. Armed with binoculars that didn’t particularly focus and my cell phone for taking pictures, I listened to Mike’s instructions on how to approach a butterfly: Do not rush toward it or make a scene; point at the little creature and direct folks who can identify it toward it; be aware of the sun and don’t let your shadow fall over the butterfly because that will scare it off.

Turns out I didn’t need to know much of anything to participate. I never used my binoculars, and I had to look at the cheat sheet repeatedly to identify the pipe vine swallowtails that love the gardens. If I saw a tiny fluttering insect, all I had to do was shout out for Mike to come identify it and he did! He took amazing photographs and then taught us what they were.

So, my morning was spent outdoors on a rare pleasant day in the dregs of August, wandering around masses of jewel-toned zinnias and coneflower and exotic-looking but native passion vine as I learned the names of exquisite butterflies. I returned home richer with this knowledge.

Mike O'Brien regularly photographs all manner of insects and native plants and shares his work with interested folks. This is time consuming work, and he is committed to it.

“The protection of Mother Nature’s flora and fauna, as well as the preservation of her wild habitats, is of paramount importance to me and has been for decades. I believe it is important for our survival as a species. We should engender in the younger population a love for all of nature, a firm desire to learn more about it and to protect it, and continue the good habitat preservation work that is being done. There is nothing more astounding than nature to me,” Mike explained. “One of my favorite quotes is from the great American poet, Mary Oliver, whose inspiration for her writings was nature. This says it all for me. 

Her wonderful quote:
 ‘Instructions for living a life:
Pay attention. Be astonished.
Tell about it.’”
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by Ferris Robinson