Connecting Communities - Fall Gardening for the Ecosystem with Mike Weis

Updated about 17 hours ago

In this episode, David and Joe are joined by Mike Weis from Drop Seed, a company specializing in native gardens and ecological restoration. Recorded at the beginning of November, this lively discussion explores sustainable ways to manage your yard, especially through the winter months. Mike shares insights on how to maintain native gardens, the importance of ecological restoration, and the role of native plants in supporting local biodiversity. The conversation highlights practical tips for composting, managing leaf litter, and creating sustainable landscapes that benefit both the environment and local communities. With personal anecdotes and expert advice, this episode is a must-watch for anyone interested in sustainable gardening practices and ecological stewardship. Mike Weis has been on the show before, discussing Kalamazoo area Wild Ones and his passion for native plants. This time, we had Mike on to talk about fall lawn care and how your landscaping can also be a positive contribution for bugs, birds, and bees. www.dropseedgardens.com Follow Wild Ones Kalamazoo events on Facebook. The science behind "Leave the Leafs": https://youtu.be/TPlIDy9u7bo?si=xsb_5Jh8pb3zgxCg Article on Leave the Leafs: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0048969725004565?via%3Dihub

Chapters

Introduction to Sustainable Landscaping (00:00:05)
The hosts introduce the topic of sustainable landscaping and ecological restoration, featuring guest Mike Weiss from Drop Seed.

The episode begins with an introduction by host David Benac, who sets the stage for a discussion about individuals making a positive impact on the environment and community. Co-host Joe Byars and guest Mike Weis from Drop Seed join the conversation to discuss native gardens and ecological restoration.
Managing Leaves Sustainably (00:00:49)
Mike Weis discusses sustainable leaf management practices for gardens and yards to prevent smothering young plants.

Mike Weis explains sustainable practices for managing leaves in gardens, emphasizing the importance of not bagging leaves for pickup and instead leaving a thin layer to decompose naturally. He highlights the benefits of composting and warns against smothering young plants with too many leaves.
Composting and Leaf Management Techniques (00:01:17)
Techniques for composting leaves and managing biomass, including the use of leaf blowers and shredders, are discussed.

Mike Weiss shares his techniques for composting leaves, including using a leaf blower that functions as a shredder. He discusses the balance between composting and preserving habitats for overwintering insects and suggests keeping as many leaves as possible on the property to enrich the soil.
Impact of Leaf Collection on City Landfills (00:02:09)
The negative environmental impact of sending leaves to landfills, where they emit methane gas, is discussed.

The conversation shifts to the environmental impact of city leaf collection programs. Mike Weiss explains that many cities end up sending collected leaves to landfills, where they decompose anaerobically and emit methane gas, exacerbating environmental problems.
Oak Savannahs and Their Ecological Importance (00:11:01)
Mike Weis introduces the concept of Oak Savannahs, their biodiversity, and their historical importance in the Midwest.

Mike Weis provides an overview of Oak Savannahs, explaining their unique ecological importance as a transition zone between prairies and forests. He describes how these areas once stretched from Texas to Minnesota and were maintained by Native Americans through controlled burns.
Biodiversity and Insect Habitats (00:23:00)
The importance of maintaining diverse insect habitats to control pest populations and promote ecological balance is discussed.

The hosts and Mike Weiss discuss the role of diverse insect habitats in controlling pest populations like cockroaches and silverfish. They emphasize the benefits of having a biodiverse ecosystem for reducing pest pressure and maintaining ecological balance.
DDT and the Impact on Ecosystems (00:27:11)
The historical impact of DDT on ecosystems and its unintended consequences on predator insects is explored.

The conversation covers the historical use of DDT, highlighting its detrimental effects on ecosystems by wiping out predator insects, which led to increased pest pressures. The hosts discuss how DDT's impact was recognized through cases involving bird and fish populations.
Leaves as Essential Ecosystem Components (00:30:28)
The significance of leaves in ecosystems as habitats for insects and their role in supporting diverse food webs is highlighted.

The discussion highlights the role of leaves as crucial habitat components for insects, which in turn support diverse food webs. The hosts explain how leaving leaves in place can enhance biodiversity and contribute to healthier ecosystems, countering the notion of leaves as litter.
Escaping the Digital World (00:33:22)
Discussing the benefits of disconnecting from the digital world and engaging with nature.

The conversation highlights how stepping away from the digital realm to engage with the natural world can offer significant mental and emotional benefits. The speakers emphasize the importance of being present and aware of the world around us.
The Therapeutic Value of Birdwatching (00:33:53)
Exploring the mental benefits of birdwatching, even common birds, and its peaceful nature.

The speakers discuss how observing birds, such as a nut hatch moving up and down a tree, can be a peaceful and enjoyable activity. They mention studies that show birdwatching can have positive mental health benefits, offering a sense of tranquility and connection to nature.
Observing Backyard Birds (00:34:25)
Describing the behavior of birds in the backyard, like chickadees and their calls.

In this segment, the speakers share their observations of birds like chickadees in their backyard, particularly their interesting calls and behaviors as they forage in hemlock trees. The interaction and communication between the birds are noted as fascinating aspects of birdwatching.
The Role of Leaves in Gardens (00:35:33)
Discussing the benefits and drawbacks of leaving leaves on the lawn for ecological benefits.

The conversation touches on the ecological benefits of leaving leaves on the ground, such as providing habitat and nutrients. However, they also acknowledge potential drawbacks, like the risk of smothering young plants if leaves accumulate too heavily.
Garden Management Guide (00:36:09)
Creating a management guide for gardens to address common issues and prevent failures.

One of the speakers describes their experience in creating a garden management guide to help customers manage their gardens effectively. They share anecdotes about customers' misunderstandings, like adding excessive leaves, which led to garden failures. The guide aims to educate and prevent such issues.
Understanding Natural Systems (00:36:55)
Explaining how plants adapt to different natural systems and evolving gardening practices.

The discussion focuses on how different plants are adapted to specific natural systems, such as prairies or forest systems, and the importance of understanding these systems when designing gardens. The speakers share insights into how natural communities shape plant evolution and gardening success.
Gardening Inspired by Natural Communities (00:39:10)
Designing gardens based on natural communities for sustainability and aesthetics.

The speakers highlight the value of designing gardens inspired by natural ecosystems. They discuss how mimicking these systems can lead to more sustainable and aesthetically pleasing gardens, where plants work together as a community, reducing the complexity and maintenance challenges.
Starting a Native Plant Business (00:41:33)
Discussing the journey of starting a business focused on native plants and gardening.

One speaker shares their journey of starting a business focused on native plant gardening. They talk about the initial challenges, the inspiration behind using recognizable native plants, and the balance between aesthetics and ecological function in garden design.
Challenges in Native Garden Design (00:45:06)
Exploring the challenges and learnings in designing native gardens for clients.

The conversation delves into the challenges faced when designing native gardens, especially regarding plant selection and customer expectations. The speakers discuss the importance of balancing artistic and scientific approaches to create gardens that are both functional and visually appealing.
Advice for Starting Native Gardens (00:50:09)
Offering advice on how to start small-scale native gardening projects.

The speakers provide practical advice for those interested in starting native gardens, emphasizing the importance of planning and research. They suggest using the winter months to prepare, such as laying down cardboard and mulch, and taking time to create a plant list and garden plan.
Supporting Ecological Restoration Efforts (00:54:02)
Encouraging support for organizations restoring ecosystems and promoting native plants.

The discussion encourages listeners to support local organizations involved in ecological restoration, such as planting native trees and flowers. These efforts help maintain biodiversity and restore natural habitats, contributing to the overall health of ecosystems.
Community Engagement and Resources (00:55:01)
Highlighting community groups and resources for learning about native gardening.

The speakers mention various community groups and resources available for those interested in native gardening, such as Wild Ones and Reforest Vine. These groups offer opportunities to learn, volunteer, and connect with others passionate about native plants and ecological restoration.