Directions: Stacy and Mike Iwanicki have been naturalizing their yard since building their home in 2003. Former farm fields now support over 100 species of prairie, savannah, woodland and wetland plants. The Iwanicki prairie is the naturalized portion covering 3/4 of an acre of their 1.24 acre lot. The remaining areas of more formalized landscape feature primarily native species too. The d-rain garden was added to their front ditch in the spring of 2008, the year of their last Natural Yard walk, has taken hold and now features blue flag iris and Canada anemone among other wet tolerant prairie plants. The d-rain garden is back-dropped on higher ground by ninebark, indigo bush, a white oak, American plum and most recently, northern bush honeysuckle. In late June, the main Iwanicki Prairie is dominated by purple coneflower and monarda, accented by orange butterfly weed and yellow coreopsis. Meandering paths lead to many surprises along the way! This yard walk is free of charge and no pre-registration is required. It is not an open house. Guided walks led by the homeowners will start at 11am and 1pm.
Directions: The Deerpath subdivision is on the west side of Wonder Lake south of Wondermere Road between Greenwood Road to the west and Thompson Road to the east. From Wondermere, turn south onto Adam. Follow to Twin Oaks and turn right. Go two streets to White Tail and turn left. Follow the curvy road to Marissa and go left to 9100 Marissa Trail – third house on left. Park in drive and along road as necessary. If lost, call Stacy at 815-236-2423. 9100 Marissa Trail, Wonder Lake, IL
