Eugenia Chapter’s July 16, 2026 yard tour took place at the home of Sheryl Thomson. She deserves a pat on the back for not having to be cajoled into sharing her native plant landscaping with us; when the call came out months ahead she willing stepped up and said she was in! As icing on the cake, she says the whole experience was a lot of fun, and everyone benefited from seeing how another person “does It”.
Overall, there are two features that stand out in Sheryl’s yard. First, the layout is highly structured with its well-defined and nicely shaped beds and inviting pathways Second, Sheryl has incorporated eye-catching and interesting “accents”: walkway and border pavers, terracotta rain barrels, stone catch-alls, signage and sculptures, chimes, and a decorative birdbath. I also want to point out how the unpainted wooden privacy fence blends in well with the lush landscaping.
Sheryl’s landscaping ideas evolved. At first she thought cacti & succulents were the way to go. Then, she wanted a butterfly garden which led to knowing the best way to attract pollinators was to utilize Florida Friendly and native plants.
Over the course of four years, Sheryl planted trees and large shrubs, then medium and understory plants, finishing up with ground covers and flowers. Now she is allowing, and enjoying, the natives to reseed themselves and find their favorite places.
Sheryl’s Jamaican caper (Quadrella jamaicensis) is laden with seed pods. Notice the beautiful flowers that precede the pods. This plant is a great understory plant or can hold its own as a solitary barrier plant. Check the link to learn more about it and see the surprise you get when the pods open!
Thanks to all who contributed plants for another successful native plant auction. It’s time to be on the lookout for native seeds to collect, germinate, and pot them up for future auctions or to share with friends and neighbors. Eugenia Chapter has 2 more native plant tours scheduled, August and September, so make your plans to attend and bring your friends.
ircnativeplants.org 