Description: The landowners began their native prairie restoration project in 2017. After clearing invasive buckthorn and honeysuckle, they began seeding small areas with native seeds. Each year, additional sections were added to their native prairie restoration project which currently stands at 2 1/2 to 3 acres. Maturing native plant areas, as well as new sections, are still undergoing seed bank depletion and clearing.
Mowed walking paths meander through the different prairie areas. The colorful blooms of many of the native plants are at their peak in July. Native oak trees have been planted including bur, swamp, black, red, and white varieties.
The rolling terrain of this sunny property showcases three types of prairies – hill and sand, mesic, and wet prairie. The hill/sand prairie features plants that tolerate dry soil and includes purple prairie clover, large flowered penstemon, blue grama, and hoary vervain. The flatter mesic prairie, which has better moisture retention, has a greater variety of wildflowers and grasses. This area includes purple coneflower, leafy prairie clover, yellow coneflower, wild bergamot, sideoats grama, and little bluestem. The lower wet prairie and wetland area includes restored areas and some remnant habitat. Here you’ll find mountain mint, boneset, and compass plant. Plants are identified by plaques similar to botanical gardens.
This is not an open house. Guided walks led by the homeowner will start at 10:00 am and 12:00 pm. There is no pre-registration required and the walk is free of charge.
Directions: From McHenry, take Route 120 west to Thompson Road. Turn left (south) and drive 3/4 mile to Marshland Way. Turn right (north) and proceed to the white house. Park on the street. 1405 Marshland Way, Bull Valley, IL 60098.
