Why Plant Native?

• Nearly one in three native plants in the U.S. is in danger of extinction, according to plant conservationists at the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center in Austin, Texas. Choosing plants indigenous to local ecosystems helps preserve national plant heritage and creates a healthier environment. Native plants are adapted to local wildlife, providing them food and shelter. Native plants thrive when weeds are removed.
  
  

Weed Removal

• Eliminate as many weeds as possible by hand-pulling or mowing. It is not necessary to rototill the soil. Native plants rely on nutrients already existing in local soil and may do poorly if soil is amended. Planted areas are mulched but not enriched with compost or fertilizer. Mulch materials include wood shavings and rocks. Straw mulch is not recommended.
  
  

Plants for Western Region Gardens

• Research local native plants through the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center Native Plant database. Plants that do well in dry western region gardens include mountain lilac, Manzanita, Mexican sage, Cleveland sage, penstemon and wild fuchsia. Red baneberry and Saskatoon serviceberry are native plants in higher mountain elevations. Yarrow is native to most of temperate North America. Native plants in a formerly weedy garden attract beneficial insects that help control harmful insect pests.
  
  

Plants for Eastern Region Gardens

• Gardeners in northeastern growing regions choose native plants such as columbine, paw paw and orange milkweed to replace unwanted weeds. Native plants are adapted to local rainfall conditions and need little extra irrigation. Windflower is an indigenous type of anemone that provides food for bird species of the northeast. Native plant gardens need less frequent maintenance than gardens with non-native plants. Check local nurseries and native plant associations for detailed instructions about local growing conditions.