pollinator's in the garden

Learning & Growing with Mother Nature

group of kindergarten kids friends arm around sitting and smiling fun

Here's some un-bee-lievable news: Chapin Branch Library is now a Certified Wildlife Habitat® according to the South Carolina Wildlife Federation. This means our garden is an authentic safe haven for all kinds of local and migratory species. As more and more habitats disappear, every habitat garden is a vital step towards replenishing resources for wildlife. Our garden has become a lively refuge for birds, butterflies, bees and critters of all shapes and sizes. To show our dedication to wildlife, we made sure to include all five key elements essential to a healthy wildlife habitat — food, water, cover, places to raise young and sustainable practices.

The Secret Ingredient to Your Favorite Foods

Pollinators in the Garden

But wait, there’s more. Did you know that a significant portion of our food depends on pollinators? Think apples, cucumbers, watermelons, nuts and more. Without our buzzing, flying and fluttering friends, these crops can’t produce fruits. Trust me, I learned this the hard way from a failed pumpkin patch. That’s why we’ve spruced up our picnic area with native plants and caterpillar gardens. We’re ready to teach kids of all ages about our pollinator pals and watch as our garden flourishes. Native plants are essential to our pollinator friends and beneficial to us all. We did our homework and consulted the pros at Chapin Garden Club, South Carolina Wildlife Federation and Lexington County Master Gardeners before creating a plan.

Learn About Our Pollinator Pals

Bees & Butterflies & Bats, Oh My!

Here’s the buzz, our pollinator friends, including butterflies, bees, moths, birds and bats, are in trouble. They’re facing habitat loss, disease, pesticides and other devastating factors. It’s our responsibility to educate ourselves and care for our planet and all of its inhabitants. Creating habitats is a small but significant way we can help do our part for the earth. This year’s Summer Reading Challenge reading theme, All Together Now, couldn’t be more perfect as we gather to explore the world around us and learn from Mother Nature.

Why it's More Than Just a Hobby

Gardening's Life Lessons

Gardening has been proven to have many benefits beyond just growing plants. It’s a therapeutic activity that can reduce stress and anxiety, boost mood and improve overall mental health. The physical act of digging in the dirt and being in nature can also provide a sense of calm and connection to the earth. In addition to the mental health benefits, gardening can also be a great teacher of patience and perseverance. Growing a plant from a tiny seed requires time, attention and dedication. It’s not just about planting the seed and waiting for it to grow, but also about nurturing it every step of the way. This process can help develop a sense of responsibility and discipline, which can be applied to other areas of life, like raising pets or children. Furthermore, gardening can also be a fun and educational activity for kids. By involving them in the process, they can learn about the science behind plant growth, the importance of taking care of the environment, and the joy of harvesting and enjoying the fruits of their labor. Overall, gardening can be a rewarding and fulfilling way of life, providing both mental and physical health benefits, as well as opportunities for learning and growth. Ready to unleash your wild side? Click here to discover all the exciting programs and events we have in store for you this summer. Stop by Chapin Branch Library to check out our garden, where wildlife’s welcome and native plants reign supreme. In the meantime, here are some excellent reads to keep you buzzing.