In the 1980’s Cary, NC developed a trend in urban planning that would include much more greenspace than was currently the standard in “suburban sprawl” at the time. In land development and in building houses in Cary, limited tree cutting was allowed. This made sense for energy bills because of the climate and of course combined with the natural abundance of trees in the piedmont would foster numerous benefits for human health, well being, and the environment. 

Many houses in the Triangle have natural woodland settings in which to create a garden, and it can be profound how many plant species are adapted to the woodland garden. Early to mid spring brings a show of uncommon pleasure in the garden as winter shakes off its coat. Summer brings soft whites and smaller deeper jewel tones against lush greens, while autumn brings hints of yellow. Winter brings the framework of the garden back into focus with the structure of trees and shade tolerant evergreens.