All things bright and beautiful, all creatures great and small.
All things wise and wonderful, the Lord God made them all.
The Chapel gardens are for the community to enjoy. If you love gardening or would like to learn about our gardens, please let us know (contact info below).
Pollinator Garden
The garden bed on the south side of the parish hall building was renovated in 2026 by parishioners to make room for plants that increase biodiversity by welcoming pollinators. Plans to expand into the shadier end of the garden bed will be explored in 2027.
Herb Garden
The Chapel hosts a variety of annual and perennial herbs in a raised bed along the north stone wall. Created by Virginia Chapin-Sheff, the herb garden is kept up by parishioners and friends and accessible to passers-by looking for healthful ways to add flavor to their meals.
Landscaping Strategy
As the local climate warms, we recognize the importance of resilient plantings that require less water. We consider placement of trees and shrubs to maximize healthy growth and create welcoming spaces. And, of course, we keep up pruning in the off-season that encourages beautiful blooms in spring, summer and fall.
The Chapel Invites You to Welcome Pollinators
Pollinator Garden Plan
Why Native Plants
Native plants occur naturally in a region in which they evolved and sustain biodiversity. They are the ecological basis upon which all life depends.
Our lawns are a monoculture carpet that isolate natural areas too small to support wildlife. Because imported plants can outcompete native species and degrade habitat in remaining natural areas, it’s important to add native plants to our yards and flower boxes. You can create a patch of natives in your yard and help rebuild biodiversity in your community.
Garden Planning
When planning a garden, consider your goals. The Chapel pollinator garden, on the south side of the building, applied these criteria: attract pollinators, sun-loving Rhode Island natives, variety of colors, flowers for the altar, self-cleaning (dead-heading not required). As this garden fills out, more plants can be added to the lower, shadier space, thereby increasing variety and biodiversity.
How can I find the right plants to attract pollinators?
Look for “native” on the plant tags in your local nurseries. Ask for help to find native plants that will work well in your yard or flower box. If you like to research online, these websites may be helpful.
Rhode Island Wild Plant Society
The Rhode Island Pollinator Atlas (RI DEM)
Native Plant Finder (National Wildlife Federation)
Natives by State (Rare Roots)
Selecting Plants for Pollinators (Pollinator.org)
Bird-friendly Native Plants (Audubon)
Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center (UT Austin)
Blue Moon Farm (South Kingstown)
Rose Shack (North Kingstown)
Handout for Children
