Does the Fleur de Lune look familiar? The four garden beds, outlined by wide gravel paths, are inspired by the 15th Century style of the ‘parterre garden.’ However, those hedged, formal gardens of English and French estates require extensive human intervention and control. In contrast, the Fleur de Lune features beds planted with modern conservation techniques in lower-maintenance “cottage garden style.” The plants are densely placed to deter—or at least slow—predation from deer. By packing plants in well-mulched beds, the garden will hold onto water and soil nutrients while encouraging visitation from local wildlife like bees, bats, and birds. We select plants that support native wildlife through the seasons. The Fleur de Lune is registered as a “Pollinator Pathway Garden.” We do not spray insecticides, encouraging native caterpillars and insect larvae to use the plants and soil as they mature. Migratory birds come through the garden to feast on insects, and we have many resident bird species as well. Local bat populations feed on insects that use the garden at night, too. Following are some other methods employed by our volunteer gardeners: • Raised beds flanking the four flat gardens help to deter predation of bulbs by chipmunks and other small mammals who live in the nearby woodlands. • Roses are only placed in the center where they would receive adequate sun and sufficient air flow to deter diseases and pests. • Ground covers are carefully selected to help control weeds and limit the application of wood chip mulch. • We select plants that are water-efficient and resistant to disease during drought. • Only organic fertilizers are used to enhance the soil. Occasionally, deer repellent is sprayed to dissuade predation. • No nighttime lighting is used, allowing the local populations of nighttime insects and animals, including fireflies, to thrive.