Philosophy
Inspired by the works of Doug Tallamy, Dr. Gegear, Robin Wall Kimmerer, native plant groups, and local organizations, we set out to reimagine our relationship with the plants we buy and use on our properties. We wanted each plant to be sourced accurately, ethically and to avoid cultivars.
Why? Because our native plants are critical to our ecosystems and have co-evolved with bees, insects, birds, and mammals. If we lose the butterflies’ host plants, then we lose those butterflies also. If we lose the nectar and pollen sources for at-risk bees their chance of survival is slim. If the birds have no caterpillars for their young and seeds and berries for themselves their populations will continue to decline.
Lady Fern Farm only offers straight species native plants- we do not offer cultivars. The straight species are the plants our fauna have co-evolved with over thousands of years.
We believe in continuing education and that we can all do better by this planet. Native plants are both beautiful and critical.
Promise
Straight Source:
We track our plant and seed sources to ensure that they are strictly native. Our seeds are all ethically sourced, many are hand collected from local gardens, city projects, and private lands- ALWAYS with owner’s permission.
Sustainability:
We prioritize environmental responsibility by conscientiously managing water usage, growing without harmful pesticides, and ethically sourcing seeds and plants.
Roots
Nikki Howell (she/her), nature enthusiast, and owner of Lady Fern Farm.
My love affair with the outdoors started early, embracing a childhood filled with dirt-streaked adventures and sun-kissed memories. Fast forward to today, and not much has changed—I'm still happiest when my hands are in the soil and the sun is on my back.
I earned a degree in Sustainable Agriculture and spent several years afterwards farming in the idyllic landscape of Tuscany and the fields of Long Island. When I became a mom and returned to Worcester, I began helping people create their own organic gardens, empowering them to grow their own fruits and vegetables and fostering a sense of self-sufficiency.
As I delved deeper into the intricacies of sustainable living, I couldn't ignore the critical role of native plants in our ecosystem. That realization helped spark the birth of Lady Fern Farm. What started as an endeavor to grow plants for myself and others has blossomed into a thriving native plant nursery.
The name "Lady Fern Farm" is a nod to the laid-back charm of our native Lady Ferns, complete with their slightly hairy legs. Beyond the whimsy, my mission is grounded in a passion for education. I want to share the critical importance of native plants and the art of habitat creation.
Together, I hope we can build a community dedicated to nurturing our planet by embracing the critical role of native flora. Lady Fern Farm is more than a nursery—it's a commitment to a greener, more sustainable future.
