Bookworm Cottage Style

A few years ago, I came across a static that completely shook me: the average American child can identify hundreds of corporate logos, but fewer than 10 plants in their hometown. YIKES!

Don’t get me wrong, I’m not surprised. As an American adult, my knowledge ratio probably isn’t too much better. But this is not the kind of world I want for myself nor is it the world I want for the next generation. Humbled by my own ignorance, I decided it was time to open my eyes and get to know my leafy neighbors a little better, starting in my own yard.

To create an atmosphere of curiosity and learning in the garden for our family (and, candidly, to help myself remember what is planted where), I ordered these customized plant identification markers from Etsy. I didn’t go as far as looking up the scientific names. Instead, I went with the species, the variety (if I knew it), and what year I planted it. 

Eventually, I’d love to set a goal of learning the names of every type of plant growing on our property (not just the things I planted myself). The iPhone plant identification feature, while not perfect, is helpful in that regard. But for now, I’m enjoying building this little learning garden of sorts.