The Hartman Prehistoric Garden was not created completely from scratch on a barren plot. Although much of the original area was just a solid limestone slab, there were plenty of native plants growing in cracks or in the areas with soil. No matter how much bulldozing, digging, and other disturbances occurred, it was inevitable that various native plants would survive, either by root segments, seeds, or in areas that were left alone. The influx of plants continues, with wind-blown or bird-deposited seeds. While invasive or aggressive plants are routinely removed from the garden, many native plants are capable of peacefully coexisting with the featured primitive plants. The pleasing flush of spring color from wildflowers, the bird-attracting berries, and the hosts of butterfly and moth caterpillars are all welcome additions to the varied botanical landscape that has been created here.
