By Ellen Denler, Extension Master Gardener, serving Fulton, Mason, Peoria, and Tazewell counties

My husband John and I live in the house in which I grew up. The original part of the house was built in 1878 and has had five generations of my family living here. Located on a corner lot (105' X 55') in Pekin, all sides of the garden are open to public view. Because of that when I first embraced a "prairie style," I was careful that the yard didn't look "messy." 

I became interested in natives when I visited Master Gardener Pat Alexander's yard. I saw many plants I didn't recognize and had never even heard of! She briefly explained their benefits and encouraged my conservation journey by giving me several of her natives. I began ordering plants from Prairie Moon Nursery in Minnesota and locally from Pleasant Prairie Nursery in Williamsfield. I chose plants based on their descriptions and benefits.
My perceptions of a garden's purpose was radically transformed. I no longer used something  just because it was popular and pretty. I didn't garden just to please myself. I developed my own "national park" as Doug Tallamy suggests. It is a pleasure to sit on our porch and watch pollinators and birds visit our Joe Pyes, bergamots, little blue stems, and that alien looking rattlesnake master.
I became interested in the Conservation at Home program because it encourages just what I had discovered--it's not about having the prettiest or tidiest yard. It's about having a useful yard.