Page 19 - Spring 2021

with the Oconee Rivers Audubon Society will visit one’s property to provide tips and tricks on gardening for wildlife.
The McNeills have bought many of their plants from the UGA horticulture plant sales, which offer a large variety of natives that are hard to find in local nurseries. In fact, Michelle and Reeves’ Valentine’s Day date was a trip to a plant nursery.
Their yard is full of hydrangeas, camellias, azaleas, crepe myrtles and hydrangeas.
“My favorites blooms are the bearded irises,” said Michelle.
In addition to natives, Michelle will plant vegetation that she has seen in other parts of the country. For example, she planted a lavender plant after visiting a lavender farm in Maui, Hawaii. Then, they added some tea olives after going on a garden tour in Charleston.
She also has plants that started as cuttings from her mother and grandmother.
“I am trying to incorporate more of those into my planting,” Michelle said, “as those are the most special ones.”
Experience
Community Banking
at its
americanpridebank.com
2500 Daniells Bridge Rd. Bldg 200, Ste 1A
Athens, GA 30606
706.534.9689
SPRING 2021 | OCONEE THE MAGAZINE | PAGE 17