Native Plant Demonstration GardenHoover Ridge Park
Native Plant Demonstration Garden Maintained by Rapidan River Master Gardeners
The Native Plant Demonstration Garden was established in 2008 by members of the Virginia Cooperative Extension’s Rapidan River Master Gardeners, with permission from Madison County Parks and Recreation. The original plantings included generous donations from members’ own gardens, along with selections purchased at the Blandy Annual Plant Sale.
Since its creation, the garden has been maintained and mulched by Master Gardeners, with updated plant identification signage installed in 2022 to improve visitor learning and accessibility.
In 2024, the garden was expanded to include additional native species, including a variety of native grasses. Today, the demonstration garden showcases how native plants can be incorporated into attractive, practical landscape designs. Conveniently located next to the Parks and Recreation Office parking area, it offers an easy, up-close look at plants that support local ecosystems while enhancing everyday landscapes.
Invasive Species Control and Tree Trimming Maintenance
Non-native invasive species are prevalent at Hoover Ridge, particularly in areas that were previously grazed and along the edges of the Oak–Hickory Forest.
In fall 2024, the Rapidan River Master Gardeners, in partnership with Virginia Cooperative Extension, collaborated with Blue Ridge PRISM to host a training on the identification and control of tree-of-heaven (Ailanthus altissima). English ivy is also a significant concern in this area. Ongoing monitoring, identification, and control of invasive species remain a priority for both Master Gardeners and Master Naturalists working at Hoover Ridge.
In addition, corrective tree pruning and maintenance are conducted annually on recently planted trees throughout the park. This work is carried out by Rapidan River Master Gardeners and Tree Stewards, with guidance from Adam Downing, to help ensure proper structure, health, and long-term success as the trees mature.
