Vacant lots are finding new life as pollinator gardens

by Averell Mondie

The Native Land Management Program has made significant strides since its launch in April. In collaboration with the local black-owned contractor Servitude Solutions—led by the father-son trio of Darion, Devonn and Terrance Townsend—the CRA has transformed three lots in the Smokey City neighborhood. These lots, strategically located near the I-40 and Jackson & Chelsea expressway, were identified as unsuitable for residential development.

Partnering with Memphis City Beautiful, the team delivered and applied 60 cubic yards each of mulch and compost across all three sites. This rich topsoil not only promotes healthy growth but also helps suppress invasive weeds. To further enhance these spaces, Servitude Solutions and the CRA procured and installed 300 native plant plugs from Memphis Native Tree Works, with 100 plugs per lot.

The initial results have been promising. Thanks to favorable rainfall, the newly installed plants have thrived without the need for additional hand watering, showcasing the resilience of native species. These revitalized lots will be registered as “Vacant Lot Pollinator Gardens” with Memphis City Beautiful, serving as valuable community assets for learning and fostering native ecosystems.

For those interested in partnering with the CRA to maintain and support these efforts, email averell.mondie@cramemphis.org. ▲