May is here and with that we begin the season of selling our Arb grown plants.
One of my favorite things about being a plant grower and seller is hearing the success stories. Folks stop by all the time and tell me how the plants they purchased from us last year are thriving in their yards. These stories make my heart sing not only because the gardener gets to enjoy the beauty of their labor, but because these plants are a contribution to our ecosystem – supporting so many creatures big and small.
In our temperamental environment, it is crucial to choose wisely when planting a garden. Because of this, I put a great deal of thought and intention into every plant I choose to grow and sell. I create signs for each species with the crucial information the gardener needs to ensure proper care. I am on a mission to make gardening in Flagstaff a success story instead of the all-too-common tale of mishap and tragedy.
Because the month of May in Flagstaff can provide every possible weather pattern imaginable, our nursery starts with a selection of cold hardy species that can roll with the punches. As we warm up through the month, the selection will grow. That said, there are some of my absolute favorite native plants available now (but let’s be honest, they are all my favorite in one way or another). This month’s featured favorite: Coyote Mint (Monardella odoratissima).
One can find this cute little clump forming mint in various places around the San Francisco Peaks. My first encounter with it was many years ago on the brutal hike up the northside of the peaks known as the Bearjaw-Abineau loop. This trail is roughly 7 miles with almost 2,000-foot elevation gain, which simply means I was practically crawling up the mountain. In my low-to-the-ground state, I smelled something minty, but it wasn’t your regular mint. It had a more earthy aroma, a calming presence. There I saw a small clump forming plant with the cutest little pink monarda-esque flowers and it was love at first sight.
In a garden setting, Coyote Mint is a survivor. One of the best parts, it doesn’t get eaten given its delightful minty aroma! I always hesitate to say plants are herbivory proof, but I have truly never had issues with this plant, and I have had catmint get chewed to the ground, so that is saying a lot. Coyote Mint can handle full sun but I have found that it does best when given some shade. While it is a mint, it does not spread like mints typically do (although I kind of wish it did). One of my favorite places to plant it is in front of Columbines along the border of a garden. If you do choose to plant in full sun it will need a little extra water, but generally this is another drought tolerant native plant that loves living in Flagstaff conditions.
Growers note: Always remember every new transplant needs water to establish!
Come find this plant and many more at our Retail Nursery, Open Wednesday-Sunday 9am-4pm May-October. Thank you for supporting the Arb!
Gina Goegan is the Greenhouse Manager at The Arboretum
