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"In indigenous ways of knowing, all beings are recognized as non-human persons, and all have their own names. It is a sign of respect to call a being by its name, and a sign of disrespect to ignore it. Words and names are the ways we humans build relationships, not only with each other, but also with plants..." - Robin Wall Kimmerer
W. E. Gowling Public School's native pollinator garden represents a philosophy of environmental stewardship, hands-on learning, and community care. Initiated by a first grade teacher, the garden was designed not only to make the schoolyard a more pleasant space, but also to create meaningful opportunities for children to connect with the natural world. By introducing students to native biodiversity at a young age, the garden encourages curiosity, empathy, respect, and a lasting appreciation for the ecosystems that exist within their own urban environment.
This philosophy has been reflected in the school’s thoughtful and intentional choice of plant species. Together, the Swamp milkweed, Lanceleaf coreopsis, Grey goldenrod, Wild bergamot, Northern bog violets, Hairy beardtongue, Sky blue asters, and Red columbine will support all kinds of native pollinators for years to come, thus contributing to the ecological richness of the space.
This garden will serve as a living classroom where students can experience ecological relationships firsthand. It allows children to observe pollinators in action, learn about seasonal cycles, and understand how even small urban green spaces can contribute to environmental health.
The project also reflects the power of public engagement. Families, educators, volunteers, and community members all play a role in supporting the garden and caring for the species within it. In doing so, the garden becomes a shared commitment to protecting native pollinators and fostering a greener, more biodiverse urban community for future generations.
This pollinator garden was carefully designed to support local biodiversity throughout the growing season. By planting a diverse mix of native species, the garden provides food and habitat for bees, butterflies, hummingbirds, and other important pollinators and wildlife. Each plant plays a unique role in strengthening the ecosystem while helping create a vibrant and educational green space for the community to enjoy.
Northern Bog Violet: Important early-season food source for pollinators, especially the Violet Miner bee, which specializes on violets here in North America. They are also a great food source for caterpillars.
Swamp Milkweed: Crucial to the monarch butterfly’s life cycle, and will eventually grow vibrant pink flowers that are eye-catching to any pollinator.
Wild Bergamot: Brightly coloured and aromatic to attract all sorts of pollinators, such as bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds.
Grey Goldenrod: A keystone species, which means it is super important for the survival of native wildlife. It has golden flowers which bloom in late summer or early fall, to make sure pollinators and birds still have food later in the year.
Lanceleaf Coreopsis: Has flat flowers that create an easy landing pad for all sorts of pollinators.
Hairy Beardtongue: Sustains local biodiversity by providing early-season nectar to hummingbirds and bees. It also acts as an essential host for butterfly larvae!
Before
A blank canvas!
Seedlings layed out, ready to be planted into a fresh bed of soil
Putting the plants in the ground
Our trusty team of volunteers!
Laying down the mulch!
After
The garden 1 year after planting!
Northern Bog Violet and Red Columbine already in bloom
Big thanks to Mrs. Bond's Grade 1 class for a lovely garden grand opening event!
The garden with all the children's artwork for the grand opening
A huge thank you to our private donor for making this project possible! If you would like to be one of the several donors who support our pollinator gardens, please contact [email protected].