Landscaping with Natives - Ideas and Suggestions from our members
How do I get started is the most frequently asked question when people start looking to incorporate native plants into their landscape. It can be as simple as replacing a few ornamental plants with natives and building from there - to as complex as a complete overhaul of your current landscaping . There are landscape companies that have expertise in designing native landscapes - see our Resources pages (Native Plant Sources, Plant Information and Landscaping ) - however cost may be a consideration. It is entirely up to you, but here are some ideas and suggestions from our members who have (and still are) working to increase native plants in their landscapes. Whatever approach you take, adding natives to your landscape increases the ecological balance and provides the necessary habitat for local birds, animals and insects.
One tree, two bushes, three perennials is a good way to start.
- First, inventory your existing landscape.
One tree, two bushes, three perennials is a good way to start.
- First, inventory your existing landscape.
- Are there any invasive ornamentals that could be replaced (Norway maple, Burning Bush, Butterfly Bush, vinca/periwinkle, English Ivy, Barberry, etc.) ? Replacing these with native plants can not only start you down the path to a more ecological landscape, but will also reduce the seed source and help reverse the invasion.
- What light/exposure and/or wetness/dryness conditions do you have so you can select the appropriate plants
- Complete replacement?
- Create a single garden for starters?
- Do selective replacement of existing ornamentals?
- Just incorporate natives into your existing landscape plan?
