Several local homes participating in tour showcasing native plant gardens

RICHMOND, Va. (WRIC) -- Plant lovers can tour seven local homes on Saturday that feature native plants in the Richmond area.

The fourth annual Richmond Area Native Plant Garden Open House will take place on Saturday, May 17 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., where people can view seven local gardens that serve as a habitat for birds, bees and butterflies.

On Saturday, people can visit the following locations in any order and view gardens grown with native plants for free:

• 206 Elm Street, Ashland 23005
• 1605 Westbrook Avenue, Richmond 23227
• 1503 Wilmington Avenue, Richmond 23227
• 606 Freeman Road, Richmond 23221
• 1806 Nortonia Road, Henrico 23229
• 10325 Waltham Drive, Henrico 23238
• 9501 Meadowview Road, Henrico 23294

8News spoke with Charlene Noll, who has planted one of the gardens showcased in the tour.

Noll said she moved to her home in Richmond in 2022 and wasn't happy with the yard, so she "killed" the yard and planted native plants.

"Most of the plants in my garden are native to our area of Virginia, and I'm pretty close to the James [River], so the plants attract a lot of really interesting, native solitary bees," Noll said.

(Photo courtesy: Lindsey West, 8News)

(Photo courtesy: Lindsey West, 8News)

(Photo courtesy: Lindsey West, 8News)

(Photo courtesy: Lindsey West, 8News)

(Photo courtesy: Lindsey West, 8News)

(Photo courtesy: Lindsey West, 8News)

(Photo courtesy: Lindsey West, 8News)

Noll said the garden has also attracted different butterflies -- including monarch butterflies -- and dragonflies.

According to Noll, people who participate in the tour on Saturday can speak with the homeowners about their gardens and receive native plants while supplies last.

"It's just a good way to get ideas for people in their own yards to help support their local flora and fauna," Noll said.

For more information about the Richmond Area Native Plant Garden Open House, visit the event's website.