Nature

At Reflection Park, we care for each other and we care for nature through cycles of life, death, and renewal. As our loved ones are laid to rest in our burial grounds, we welcome visitors to explore the area and enjoy its beauty. 

  • Seed Planting

    If you came to this page because your received one of our seed packets, welcome! Planting instructions and further details on your native perennial wildflower seed mix can be found below.

    Sunlit green leaves symbolizing harmony between nature and the cycle of life at Reflection Park

  • Native Plants

    Supporting native plants is one of the best things that we can do to sustain a diverse range of species. Learn more about Reflection Park’s commitment to planting natives below.

    Golden autumn maple leaves representing equity and the shared human experience of the natural cycle

  • On the Ground

    Documenting biodiversity at Reflection Park is an important way to not only appreciate the natural beauty of the area but also to engage in conservation efforts. Learn more about our observations below.

    Green leaves with red berries representing care and the nurturing role of nature at Reflection Park

Seed Planting

The wildflower mix in your seed packet includes perennial native Blackeyed Susan, Tall White Beardtongue, Lanceleaf Coreopsis, and Oxeye Sunflower. See this link for the full composition of seeds included. 

Planting instructions:

  • Select a sunny site for planting

  • Clear the soil and rake it lightly

  • Sow the seeds and press them into the soil - you don’t need to bury them

  • Water about an inch per week through the first growing season

  • For more information about planting, visit Ernst Seeds planting guides

Native Plants

Reflection Park is committed to fostering biodiversity by prioritizing the planting of native species. Native plants play a crucial role in supporting a wide array of wildlife, creating a thriving ecosystem that is both resilient and sustainable.

Native plants provide food to insects that feed numerous other species, including birds, frogs, dragonflies, bats, and small mammals.

Birds raising their young are especially reliant on caterpillars to feed their babies. Planting native plants assures that birds will have access to more food to raise the next generation of our feathered friends!

On the Grounds

We use the iNaturalist app to collect information about Reflection Park’s biodiversity. Recent observations can be found here. The area highlighted here includes some land beyond the boundaries of Reflection Park and includes submissions by citizen scientists, not just our team.

Biodiversity documentation serves as a critical tool in conservation efforts. By keeping records of the plants, animals, and other organisms present in Reflection Park, we can monitor changes in populations over time.

Documenting the biodiversity at Reflection Park is a multifaceted endeavor with significant benefits for conservation, education, and community engagement. By systematically recording the richness of life within the park, we can ensure its protection for future generations while nurturing a collective appreciation for the natural world.

Tell me, what is it you plan to do with your one wild and precious life?

—Mary Oliver, The Summer Day