Showcasing drought tolerant plants and shrubs is a key factor, not only because we want to minimize the impact on our own well and those of the surrounding properties, but also because of the implications of climate change on gardening in the Willamette Valley. Selecting plants that attract bees, birds and other pollinators enhances the environment as well.

Several nurseries associated with Proven Winners have already provided donations of flowering shrubs and perennials (https://www.provenwinners.com/). In the next few months, we will be adding a series of new garden beds featuring annuals and perennial flowers and shrubs, including pollinator plants, low-water use plants and North American native plants.