Amid the bustle of everyday life in Tupelo, Mississippi lies a hidden gem -- Dale Smith’s backyard woodland garden.

I recently had the pleasure of touring this garden where beautiful plants thrive around every corner.

As I approached the woodland garden pathway, the first thing to greet me was a majestic Japanese black pine. This evergreen tree, native to the coastal regions of Japan and Korea, stood majestic with its striking dark green needles and rugged, picturesque appearance.

It set the tone for the serene, natural ambience that permeated the entire space.

Along the path, I encountered bursts of color and life.

Clumps of wild geraniums, native perennial wildflowers of North America, covered the ground with clusters of flowers in delicate hues of pale to deep pink and lavender. Their deeply lobed leaves added texture and charm to the garden’s floor and invited me to pause and appreciate their simple yet elegant beauty.

Further along the pathway, Virginia Bluebells stole the show.

These herbaceous perennials, native to eastern North America, have clusters of bell-shaped, sky-blue flowers that danced in the gentle breeze. Their presence created a stunning focal point, drawing the eye and igniting a sense of wonder.

Amid the greenery, Variegated Solomon’s Seal added its unique flair to the landscape. With bright green foliage accented by white edges and maroon-tinged stems, this shade-loving plant provided awesome contrasts. Its dangling, white, bell-shaped flowers add to its allure, attracting bees and butterflies alike.

Throughout Dale’s woodland garden, a variety of columbine plants added their own special touch.

With their colorful blooms, these plants delighted the eye and also attracted pollinators like bees and hummingbirds. Their presence added vibrancy to the already thriving ecosystem.

As I explored this magical woodland garden, it was hard not to be inspired. The combination of native plants, carefully curated pathways, and natural beauty created a sanctuary that beckoned me to pause, breathe and connect with nature.

For those with wooded areas in their landscape, Dale’s garden serves as a testament to the transformative power of creating a woodland garden. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or just starting out, you can turn a piece of your landscape into a haven for native plants and wildlife.

So, the next time you find yourself gazing at a wooded area in your backyard or community, consider the possibilities.

With a bit of creativity and a touch of nature’s magic, you, too, can create your own woodland oasis, a place where beauty and tranquility intertwine in perfect harmony.