PLANT OF THE MONTH
August, 2009
Plant of the Month Feature
by Carla Hilgenberg
Native Prairie
As I stroll through the Arboretum on a sunny, summer day I always find myself looking toward the tall prairie grasses. I try to imagine a day gone by before the houses and city and people driving in cars running to work, appointments, or lunch dates to a day when all one could see was prairie. Early explorers, Lewis and Clark and Zebulon Pike described a strong and colorful people of the prairie. The Plains Indians of the prairie consisted of many tribes speaking different languages and all living off the land.
I imagine how the first European settlers were in awe of this sight. The entire state of Iowa was once nearly covered by tall grass prairie. The tall grass would sometimes reach 12 feet and was the most common type of prairie in Iowa. European settlers used the French word, "prairie," to describe this sea of grass. They had never seen anything like it. Iowa's landscape is much different today. As Iowa became settled, prairie was converted into farms, towns, and roads. Previously, 70% of the state was once prairie, and now less than one-tenth of one percent remains.
The good news is that prairies are making a comeback. Many Iowans are restoring and reconstructing prairie areas. Today you can see prairie along railroads and roadsides, as well as other sites throughout the state. Farmers use prairie grasses for filter strips, field borders, and grass waterways. Prairie grasses exclude weeds and reduce erosion and also provide habitat for wildlife as well as beautify our roadsides.
Prairie habitat is important to us all! Our prairie plants are responsible for our fertile Iowa soil. Prairie wildflowers will bloom from April to October. Visit the Bickelhaupt Arboretum and walk through the prairie. You will see Big Bluestem, Little Bluestem, and Indian Switchgrass. There will be flowering plants such as Rattlesnake Master, Coneflowers, Asters, and Compass plants. Native prairie plants are environmentally friendly and are beautiful in gardens. Prairie plants have vast root systems. These plants are known for their low maintenance. Many of these plants have colorful blooms. These plants provide nectar, pollen and seed to attract bees, butterflies, and birds. The prairie wilderness is no more but special efforts are being made to reconstruct prairie and manage existing prairies throughout our state. Consider native prairie plants for your yards and gardens. The Bickelhaupt Arboretum serves as a connection between people and plants and can help answer any questions you may have. They are a great resource to have in our community! Visit the Arboretum's Prairie and as you stroll through the sea of grass maybe you will hear voices from the past.
About the author: Carla Hilgenberg has been an educator for 24 years. She is currently teaching 5th grade at Jefferson Elementary in Clinton, Iowa. She enjoys traveling and spending time with her family. She helps with the Butterfly Fest and Earth Day events at the Arboretum.