Native Plants. Healthy Ecosystems. Inspired Gardens.
Welcome to Stover Mill Farm, a nature sanctuary located in Broad Run, Virginia, where you will find native plants, abundant wildlife, and opportunities to connect with nature. Whether you’re looking for inspiration, a little help, or locally sourced native plants, we invite you to explore, learn, and experience the beauty of nature alongside us.
Why Native Plants Matter
Over thousands of years, our native plants and wildlife have evolved together. The shape of a flower, the timing of its blooms, the chemistry of its leaves, and even the size of the plant all play a role in supporting the insects, birds, and other wildlife that depend on it.
Non-native ornamental plants and native plants that have been genetically modified to create cultivars, sometimes called “nativars,” may have brighter colors, double blooms, shorter stems, or a more compact shape. Many are still valuable garden plants, but those changes can also make flowers less accessible to pollinators or alter some of the relationships that local wildlife has developed with the original species.
Local Ecotypes
Local ecotypes are plants whose genetics come from our region and have adapted to Virginia’s climate over countless generations. That means they bloom when our pollinators expect them to bloom. They are adapted to our soils, our rainfall, and our seasons, and their flowers are just the right size for our local pollinators.
We grow local ecotype native plants sourced from our property whenever possible. Locally adapted genetics help support local wildlife and create resilient ecosystems.
The Foundation of a Healthy Ecosystem
Native plants, trees and shrubs, are the foundation of the food web. Their leaves feed hundreds of species of butterfly and moth caterpillars, which in turn become essential food for birds raising their young.
Working Alongside Nature
The more we learn to work with nature, the more life our gardens will support and, often, the easier they become to maintain. Nature doesn’t strive for perfection. It strives for balance.
How Can We Help?
Native plants are the beginning of the journey. Whether you’re ready to take the plunge, already have a clear vision, or are well on your way, we’d love to join you on your journey.
Learn & Be Inspired
Discover articles, videos, garden ideas and practical resources to help you learn about native plants and the wildlife they support.
Visit the Farm
Walk the gardens, explore the nursery, and experience Virginia’s native landscapes firsthand. Visits are by appointment, giving us the opportunity to answer questions and help you find the right plants for your space.
Find Native Plants
Browse our selection of plants, including wildflowers, grasses, shrubs, and trees, and discover the right plants for your landscape.
Our Story
Stover Mill Farm has been part of Virginia’s landscape since the early 1800s.
What drew us here wasn’t just its history, but the life that surrounds it. The pastures, streams, meadows, and the remarkable diversity of native plants already growing here.
Over the years, we’ve had the privilege of watching the farm become increasingly alive. Butterflies, birds, frogs, fireflies and countless other creatures have reminded us that even small changes can make a lasting difference when we choose to work alongside nature.
Today, the nursery is simply one part of the farm’s continuing story. It is our way of sharing what we’ve learned and helping others discover the beauty, resilience, and wonder of Virginia’s native landscape.