Meet Trisha Clark | Native Landscaping Business Owner

We had the good fortune of connecting with Trisha Clark and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Can you give our readers an introduction to your business? Maybe you can share a bit about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
At Pollination Gardens, every yard becomes a living, breathing piece of art—a natural sculpture made from native plants, trees, and soil that shifts with the seasons. But this isn’t just landscaping; it’s about healing the land and creating safe havens for pollinators without using harmful chemicals. I’m all about sustainable, natural practices that let nature and people thrive together.

I have a BA in Women’s Studies from The Ohio State University, which I earned as a single mom putting myself through school. It wasn’t easy. I’ve always wanted to show my kids the value of hard work and having a purpose behind it. With Pollination Gardens, I’m not only creating sustainable, resilient spaces but also showing my kids what it means to lead with integrity.

I want them to see that a woman-owned business can truly make a difference, not just for us, our clients, but also for the planet. I hope to inspire others to see their land as part of a bigger ecosystem, to appreciate the power of native plants, and to create beauty that supports life. Pollination Gardens is about making a real impact—on our yards, our communities, and the future we all share.

www.pollinationgardens.com

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
7-Day Itinerary: Clintonville, Athens, Yellow Springs, Mt. Vernon, & Columbus Area

Day 1: Clintonville

• Morning: Start the day at the Clintonville Farmers Market, exploring fresh produce and artisan goods.
• Afternoon: Visit Global Gallery, a fair-trade shop supporting artisans worldwide, and Wild Cat Gift & Party for unique gifts.
• Evening: Dinner at Northstar Café

Day 2: Athens

• Morning: Travel to Athens.
• Afternoon: Lunch at Casa Nueva, a worker-owned, Hispanic-inspired restaurant using locally sourced ingredients. Stop by the Athens Farmers Market (if it’s a Saturday) for local finds.
• Early Evening: Hike at Rockhouse, enjoying beautiful rock formations and forest trails, fresh air, gorgeous
• Night: Dinner and local beers at Jackie O’s Brewpub, a beloved Athens brewery.

Day 3: Yellow Springs

• Morning: Travel to Yellow Springs.
• Afternoon: Hike through Glen Helen Nature Preserve and enjoy lunch at Ha Ha Pizza, a local favorite known for its creative toppings.
• Evening: Explore downtown Yellow Springs, browsing local galleries, artisan shops, and enjoying the unique atmosphere.

Day 4: Mt. Vernon & Gambier

• Morning: Travel to Mt. Vernon.
• Afternoon: Stroll around the town square, browsing antique shops and local boutiques.
• Late Afternoon: Visit Schnormeier Gardens in Gambier, known for its beautiful Japanese-inspired landscapes.
• Evening: Return to Clintonville. Dinner at Lavash for the best Mediterranean food

Day 5: Columbus & Clintonville

• Morning: Start with breakfast at Joya’s Café, a Black-owned, woman-led business known for fresh, locally sourced breakfast options.
• Mid-Morning: Visit Whetstone Park of Roses and Chadwick Arboretum to enjoy native plants and beautiful landscapes.
• Afternoon: Stop by a small, Black-owned business like Akili Studios (in the Short North area) for unique African-inspired art and gifts.
• Evening: Dinner at Rooh in Columbus, showcasing creative local cuisine.

Day 6: Native Plants & Gardens

• Morning: Breakfast at Fox in the Snow Café, a woman-owned coffee shop with excellent pastries and a cozy atmosphere.
• Mid-Morning: Visit Scioto Gardens in Delaware to explore a great selection of native plants.
• Afternoon: Head to Natives in Harmony in Marengo, specializing in native plants and eco-friendly landscaping.
•Dinner at Yellow Brick Pizza in Columbus

Day 7: Columbus Art & Food

• Morning: Start the day with breakfast at Buckeye Donuts, a Columbus classic known for its donuts and breakfast items.
• Mid-Morning: Coffee at Upper Cup Coffee Co., a Black-owned café in Olde Towne East, known for rich, flavorful brews.
• Afternoon: Visit the Columbus Museum of Art and the Short North Arts District, with its eclectic galleries, murals, and local art scene.
• Evening: Dinner at Rooh Columbus, a top spot for Indian food with a modern take on traditional cuisine.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I would like to give a shout out to Maya Ward, Founder & Executive Director of Alicia’s Closet. She helps Kinship & Foster Care children and families

I got my two grandchildren when they were 2 & 4, now they are 7 & 9. I am raising them & starting all over, due to domestic violence.

Maya’s work is helping me & thousands of others have more support & resources through respite care, support groups, help with Christmas & free clothes for the kids.

[email protected]

Website: https://www.pollinationgardens.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pollinationllc?igsh=N3YzZjE5eWl2Y29o&utm_source=qr

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100069274140974&mibextid=kFxxJD

Image Credits
Trish Clark