The trend of incorporating native flora into landscaping is on the rise, and the rationale is clear. Utilizing indigenous plants is not only environmentally friendly, but it also offers a smart approach to reducing time and labor inputs. Moreover, these plants are every bit as visually appealing as their non-native counterparts. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener looking to diversify your greenery or a beginner just starting out, these expert guidelines will help you successfully integrate natives into your outdoor space.
Josh Nelson, the director of development for Wild Ones, a national organization advocating for native landscapes, shares his insights.
Native plants are those that occur naturally within a specific region. Having adapted to the local environmental conditions, they require minimal care. These hardy plants typically exhibit greater resistance to diseases and pests than non-natives, resulting in a more low-maintenance outdoor space.
“Once established, native gardens generally demand far less upkeep than traditional lawns,” says Nelson. “This translates to less mowing, reduced maintenance, and more leisure time enjoying your yard, rather than slaving over it.”
Native plants also confer benefits to the environment. “Native landscapes represent an accessible means of making a significant positive impact on the environment,” Nelson explains. “They support pollinators, provide sustenance and shelter for wildlife, and contribute to cleaner air and water.”
In contrast to suburban landscapes that often feature non-native ornamentals with limited ecological value, native gardens showcase plants that have evolved alongside their environment, fostering crucial relationships with insects and wildlife, such as the exclusive egg-laying preference of monarch butterflies on milkweed.
“Nurturing the planet can be achieved in many ways, but incorporating native plants stands out as one of the most immediate and rewarding,” according to Nelson. “You can witness the impact daily as birds, butterflies, and other creatures pay a visit to your garden.”
Embarking on the journey to enjoy the advantages of native plants is straightforward. “Every native plant makes a difference, regardless of the scale of the effort,” Nelson assures. Here are some tips to help you introduce natives into your landscape effectively.
Integrating native plants can be as simple as potting a selection of them in a container on your deck or patio, ensuring a succession of blooms. “If you’re hesitant, begin small,” Nelson suggests. “We’ve observed individuals starting with just a few native flowers by their mailbox and, witnessing the arrival of bees and butterflies, feeling inspired to expand. This incremental approach allows both you and your neighbors to adapt and appreciate the transformation.”
For those with existing garden beds, consider interplanting native species in available spaces. “Blending natives into an established bed is an excellent, low-effort option,” Nelson says. “It preserves your existing plants, requires minimal preparation, and provides a subtle visual transition, which can be advantageous in neighborhoods where changes are noticed.”
While a gradual approach is advisable, a more proactive strategy is necessary for dealing with invasive plants. “We recommend removing invasive species like buckthorn, honeysuckle, or garlic mustard, as they can actively harm adjacent natural areas and complicate the management of both native and conventional gardens,” Nelson advises.
Creating a new garden bed offers a fresh start, allowing for greater control over design, species selection, and ecological function, and potentially reducing competition from less beneficial plants, Nelson notes.
Consider replacing a section of your lawn with a bed of native trees, shrubs, and perennials to create a layered habitat for wildlife, or use perennial flowers and self-seeding annuals to attract pollinators. “Ultimately, the best method depends on your goals, timeline, and readiness to reimagine your outdoor space,” Nelson says.
If local regulations permit, plant a curbside garden using drought-tolerant, shorter native plants that can withstand harsh conditions. “The diversity of native plants is one of their strengths,” Nelson comments. “Whether you desire a neat, compact look or a wild, natural aesthetic, there’s a native species to match most styles and spaces.”
For those concerned with appearances, Nelson reassures that many native plants can be maintained in a tidy, intentional manner that blends seamlessly with traditional landscaping.
Numerous native grasses and wildflowers possess extensive root systems that minimize runoff and prevent erosion. Identify low-lying areas in your garden where water collects after rain or near downspouts and create a rain garden with appropriate native species. This will help water permeate the ground rather than flowing into storm drains.
Given that natural landscapes are multi-layered, design your garden in three tiers: a structural layer of trees, shrubs, and tall grasses with year-round interest; a seasonal layer of medium-height plants offering blooms and interesting foliage; and a ground layer of shade-tolerant, low-growing plants.
Planting closely together enhances spatial efficiency, produces a dynamic texture, and allows for greater plant diversity. Dense planting serves as a “living mulch,” suppressing weeds, maintaining soil temperature, and retaining moisture.
While native plants require less maintenance as they mature, they do benefit from initial care. Mulch new beds lightly, keep them weed-free, and provide supplementary watering as needed until the plants are well-established (within 1 to 2 years). Refrain from using fertilizers or pesticides, but be prepared to deadhead plants that tend to seed prolifically.
Before transitioning to natives, research local regulations that may affect natural landscaping, including weed ordinances and fire regulations that may restrict the placement and management of such landscapes.
Nelson acknowledges that change can be challenging, particularly when it challenges traditional notions of an ideal yard. “However, this presents an opportunity to reevaluate those standards,” he says. Keep neighbors informed and ensure your landscape appears well-kept rather than neglected by following these guidelines:
– Choose smaller plants that won’t sprawl or require staking.
– Limit front-yard plant heights to chest level or lower to avoid a overgrown look; taller plants are suitable for backyards or where privacy is desired.
– Plant in staggered heights for optimal viewing.
– Plant in large groups to create a neater appearance.
– Ensure there’s always something in bloom throughout the seasons.
– Mow around the garden perimeter, mulch plants, and incorporate pathways and edging.
– Add seating and garden structures like trellises, arbors, and birdbaths.
You don’t have to embark on the native landscaping journey alone. “You can start your journey without even planting a seed,” Nelson says, highlighting Wild Ones’ native garden design program and free educational webinars. Local chapters also organize garden tours, native plant sales, and volunteer workdays. “These are excellent resources to learn, find inspiration, and connect with like-minded individuals passionate about native landscaping,” he says. Additionally, local cooperative extension services provide valuable information on native plants.
Spending time in a native plant landscape can increase your appreciation for pollinators, insects, birds, and wildlife, fostering a deeper connection with nature. “Many people find that gardening with native plants enhances their sense of place and purpose,” Nelson concludes. “There’s a profound satisfaction in watching your yard become part of a vibrant, interconnected ecosystem. Native landscapes can help individuals feel more grounded and connected to the natural history and rhythms of their region.”
