Our backyard nursery is tucked away on ten acres of wooded property behind another ten acres almost at the end of a dead-end road just outside the Grovetown city limits off the Harlem-Grovetown Road. Surrounded by trees and wildlife, it seems to be miles away from civilization; yet it is close to I-20 and many new subdivisions. Its peaceful and quiet location is protected by a floodplain which keeps encroaching noises at a distance. As you turn into the lengthy driveway, you wonder if you have lost your way; but the constant signs reassure you to continue. It is not until you park and walk to the backyard that you see the many tables of potted native plants come into view. All have been hidden by the house and the sloping hollow behind it.

Judy Kirkland is sole owner and operator of this massive collection. After she retired as a teacher, she became active in Master Gardeners and local plant societies and clubs. While completing the horticulture program at Augusta Technical College, she decided to start her own business to encourage the public to grow more native plants for the pollinators. Armed with good intentions, a little knowledge, and the assistance of many gardening friends, she began growing seeds and purchasing plugs to increase the availability of native plants in the area. Unlike the big box stores, she grows mainly perennials native to the southeast without neonicotinoids and herbicides. Although some perennials do not bloom all summer, they do provide food and habitat for bees, butterflies, and beneficial insects.