NPSOT-Boerne Plant Rescue

Welcome

Welcome to NPSOT-Boerne Plant Rescue, a project hosted by members of the Boerne Chapter of the Native Plant Society of Texas (NPSOT). We’re enthusiastic about native plants, and it shows! We try to have several plant rescues each year, not only because it’s fun but to help save our precious natural resources. The purpose of the Native Plant Society of Texas is to promote the conservation, research and utilization of the native plants and plant habitats of Texas through education, outreach and example.

Why rescue plants?

Native plants are in danger of being destroyed by road and building construction. Many of the landowners are not aware of the important native plants growing on their land and are willing to have these plants removed before they are destroyed. But don’t trepass! Our plant rescue efforts are always coordinated so that we receive approval before venturing out onto the property. We also want to schedule the rescue when it’s convenient for all parties.

Building friendships and comradery while on a rescue.

Come join us for a rescue! Not only will you get plenty of fresh air, but you will be hanging out with people who are also enthusiatic about native plants. You can learn many interesting facts when you’re sleuthing around, trying to identify plants and carefully removing them for the fun ride home.

Learning about native plants in the field.

Sure, books are great, but there is nothing like seeing a native plant up close. Experiencing its beauty, form, characteristics, and scent in its natural habitat.

Preparing for your first rescue

Items to bring (depending on the plant size):

  • Water — always bring water for yourself and some for your member of the family, the plant
  • Chair — relax in comfort, plus you may need it when you take off your muddy boots!
  • Hat and gloves — safety first! Better grab that suntan lotion, too!
  • Shovels — a regular, pointed digging shovel and maybe a narrow-blade shovel
  • Trowels — for getting up close and personal with those smaller plants
  • Containers — pots or sturdy bags to hold the root ball
  • Snacks — hey, this could take a while so plan for a break and a well-deserved snack (don’t forget your water!)
  • Patience — dig carefully to not injure the plant
  • Sense of humor — not all plants are growing in dry, flat ground! Just ask some of our more-experienced rescuers.

What to expect when you get there.

Did we mention that not all plants are growing in dry, flat ground? Actually, many of our rescues are in beautiful locations. Some of them are remote, away from the hussle of big city life. Check with the rescue organizer to find out if you will be parking close to or far away from the rescue area. Depending on the terrain, you may pull up next to the plants, or you may be in for a hike. Check the weather on the day of the rescue — a little rain the night before may mean easier digging conditions or muddy fields. Always remember the buddy system when you’re rescuing the big plants!

What to expect to take home.

Congratulations, besides the fun that you’ve had during the rescue, you’re now the proud parent of a Texas native plant, and you’re in luck. Since you’re reading this on our web site, you can follow this link (http://npsot.org/wp/boerne/plant-of-the-month/) to our resource of care instructions for native plants prepared by members of our NICE! committee. While you were rescuing your new friend, it helps to take a few notes on where this plant was growing. Note its soil conditions, the drainage, and its sun exposure, and try to provide it similar conditions at your home.

Now that you’ve done it once, here’s how to identify a “plant rescue” spot for next time.

If you see a site that you think would be great for a native plant rescue, contact our rescue coordinator before you venture too far. Our coordinator can direct you in how to contact the landowners and approach them about rescuing the precious resources on their land.

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