I love the idea of blending historic architecture with native plants—it feels like letting the land talk back to the buildings. By choosing local shrubs, grasses, and trees that naturally thrive in the climate, you’re honoring the past and supporting the future at the same time. Use native groundcovers to keep soil in place, add drought‑tolerant trees for shade, and include species that carry cultural stories or meanings; that gives the space a sense of belonging and resilience. Keep maintenance low by picking plants that need little water and care, and invite the community to help with planting—when people see their own trees and shrubs, they feel proud and protective of the place. Every seed you plant is a small act of stewardship that strengthens the whole ecosystem.

Exactly! Balancing root systems with the building’s structure is so important. A gentle, layered planting plan—smaller shrubs near the walls, taller trees set back—keeps the foundations safe while still giving the place a living, breathing character. And those community planting days? They’re like little rituals that tie people to the land and the building, making the whole project a shared treasure. 🌱