Perennial Garden Native Plants

Introduction to Perennial Garden Native Plants

Are you interested in creating a beautiful, low-maintenance garden that also supports local wildlife? Look no further than perennial garden native plants! In this article, we will cover the basics of what makes a plant "native" and how incorporating these species into your garden can benefit both the environment and your own gardening experience.

Benefits of Using Native Plants in Your Garden

Native plants have numerous benefits when it comes to gardening. Here are some of the top benefits you can enjoy by using them:

1. Low maintenance: Native plants are adapted to the local climate, so they require less water, fertilizers, and pesticides than non-native plants. This means less work for you and a more sustainable garden.

2. Biodiversity: Native plants provide important habitat for local wildlife, such as butterflies, bees, and birds. By planting a variety of native species, you can help support biodiversity in your area.

3. Drought-resistant: Native plants have some natural ability to retain water. They will also require less watering once they have established themselves in the garden. Their deep root system can help prevent erosion, especially on slopes.

4. Cost-effective: Because native plants require less maintenance and resources than non-native plants, they can be more cost-effective in the long run. They also typically require less fertilizer or soil additives, which means lower garden expenses.

5. Helping the environment: Native plants do not require fertilizers and pesticides which negatively impact the environment. Using them in your garden helps reduce water pollution, nitrogen and phosphorus runoff and reduces carbon from the environment.

6. Attractive: Native plants can provide a diverse and attractive landscape for the garden. They have a natural beauty that sets them apart. They bloom at different times of the year, providing seasonal interest and color to the garden.

By using native plants in your garden, you can create a sustainable and beautiful garden while also benefiting the environment and supporting local wildlife.

Top 10 Native Perennial Plants for Your Garden

Native plants are an excellent choice for any garden as they are well-suited to the local environment and provide essential habitat for local wildlife. Here are the top 10 native perennial plants to consider adding to your garden:

1. Wild Columbine (Aquilegia canadensis) - This elegant plant has unique, bell-shaped red and yellow flowers that bloom in late spring to early summer. It attracts hummingbirds and has a low-maintenance growth habit.
2. Black-Eyed Susan (Rudbeckia hirta) - A classic garden favorite, Black-Eyed Susan has daisy-like yellow flowers with dark centers that bloom from mid-summer to fall. It's drought-tolerant and attracts bees, butterflies, and other pollinators.
3. Goldenrod (Solidago spp.) - Contrary to popular belief, Goldenrod is not a cause of fall allergies but is instead a beautiful and hardy plant with yellow flowers that bloom in late summer and fall. It attracts bees, butterflies, and other insects and is a larval host for a variety of moths and butterflies.
4. Coneflower (Echinacea purpurea) - This stunning plant has pink to purple daisy-like flowers with distinctive cone-shaped centers that bloom throughout the summer. It attracts pollinators and is known for its medicinal properties.
5. False Indigo (Baptisia australis) - A tough and long-lived plant with blue, lupine-like flowers in late spring to early summer. This plant also hosts butterflies and is an excellent addition to any garden that needs a pop of color.
6. Meadow Phlox (Phlox maculata) - This fragrant plant has pink to purple flowers that bloom in mid to late summer. It attracts bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds and is an excellent choice for a garden border or mixed garden bed.
7. Butterfly Weed (Asclepias tuberosa) - A bright orange-flowered plant that blooms in midsummer, Butterfly Weed is an essential plant for any pollinator garden. It attracts butterflies, moths, and bees and is a larval host for Monarch and Queen butterflies.
8. Joe Pye Weed (Eutrochium purpureum) - This tall and striking plant has purplish-pink flowers that bloom in late summer to early fall and attract butterflies and other pollinators. It's ideal for the back of a mixed border or in a naturalized garden.
9. Blue Flag Iris (Iris versicolor) - A stunning and low-maintenance plant that has blue or purple flowers that bloom in late spring to early summer. It attracts pollinators and is an excellent choice for a water garden or wetland area.
10. Wild Bergamot (Monarda fistulosa) - With lavender-colored flowers that bloom in mid to late summer, Wild Bergamot is a favorite of pollinators and hummingbirds. It's also an excellent choice for a dried flower arrangement or herbal tea.

Planting native perennials not only benefits your garden but also plays an essential role in supporting the local ecosystem. Consider adding some of these plants to your garden to create a beautiful and sustainable landscape.

How to Care for Native Perennial Plants

Native perennial plants are an excellent option for any garden because they are low maintenance and attract native wildlife to your yard. Here are some tips on how to care for your native perennial plants:

1. Planting: Choose a spot that gets plenty of sunlight and has well-draining soil. When planting, make sure to dig a hole that is about twice the width of the plant's root ball. It's also important to plant at the correct depth, which is typically at the same level as the soil in the pot.
2. Watering: Water your native perennials thoroughly after planting and then regularly afterward until they are established. After that, many native plants can survive with little to no supplemental watering. However, during periods of drought, it's a good idea to water your plants every one to two weeks.
3. Fertilizing: Most native perennial plants do not require fertilizing. If you do use fertilizer, it's best to use a low-nitrogen, slow-release option. Avoid fertilizing in the fall because it can encourage new growth that won't be able to survive the winter.
4. Pruning: Native perennial plants typically require minimal pruning. However, you may need to deadhead flowers to encourage new growth and prevent self-seeding. It's also a good idea to remove any dead or diseased foliage to prevent the spread of disease.
5. Dividing: Many native perennial plants benefit from dividing every few years. This involves digging up the plant, splitting it into smaller sections, and replanting them. Dividing can help keep the plant healthy and prevent overcrowding.
6. Protection: Native plants are often more resistant to pests and diseases than non-native plants. However, that doesn't mean they are completely immune. Keep an eye out for any signs of pests or diseases and take action as soon as possible to prevent them from spreading.

By following these tips, you can enjoy a beautiful, low maintenance garden full of native perennial plants. Not only are they good for the environment, but they also provide food and shelter for wildlife.

Designing a Perennial Garden with Native Plants

Native plants are an excellent choice for designing a perennial garden. Not only are they low-maintenance, but they also attract local wildlife and pollinators to your garden. When designing a perennial garden with native plants, there are a few factors to keep in mind:

1. Select plants that are native to your region: Native plants are well-adapted to local conditions and require less water and fertilizer than non-native plants. They also provide valuable habitat for local wildlife, such as birds and butterflies. Before choosing plants, research which species are native to your area and thrive in your specific growing conditions.
2. Choose plants with contrasting textures and colors: A well-designed perennial garden includes plants with a variety of textures and colors. To create visual interest, choose plants with different leaf shapes, sizes, and patterns. Combine plants with different bloom times to ensure that your garden is in bloom from spring through fall.
3. Plant in groups: Planting in groups creates a natural look and helps to conserve water by creating a microclimate that retains moisture. Planting in groups also helps to accentuate specific plants that you want to showcase.
4. Create a focal point: A focal point creates a visual center for your garden and can be used to draw attention to a particular plant or area. Focal points can be a large specimen plant, a garden statue, or a grouping of plants with contrasting colors and textures. Use focal points sparingly, so they don't overwhelm the rest of your garden.
5. Consider the growth habits of your plants: When designing your perennial garden, consider the growth habits of your plants. Some plants, such as black-eyed Susan, can spread and become invasive if not properly maintained. Be sure to choose plants that will not outcompete other plants in your garden.
6. Include plants of different heights: Plants of different heights add dimension to your garden and can be used to create a focal point. Use tall plants in the back of the garden and shorter plants in the front to create a sense of depth and balance.
7. Think about companion plants: Native plants often have natural companions that grow well in the same conditions. For example, woodland phlox and trilliums both thrive in shady, moist conditions and look beautiful when planted together. Be sure to research companion plants for the species you've chosen to maximize your garden's success.

Designing a perennial garden with native plants can be a fun and rewarding project. By following these tips, you can create a beautiful and low-maintenance garden that will attract local wildlife and pollinators and enhance the natural beauty of your landscape.

Where to Find Native Perennial Plants for Your Garden

Native perennials are an excellent choice for any garden as they tend to be low maintenance, disease-resistant, and provide a habitat for local wildlife. Finding these plants is not always easy, but there are several resources available to help you locate them.

1. Online Nurseries: Many online nurseries specialize in selling native perennials. They offer a wide selection of plants and often provide detailed information about each one, including its growth habits, soil requirements, and sun preferences. Before purchasing, make sure to research the nursery and read reviews to ensure a reputable seller.
2. Local Nurseries and Garden Centers: Local nurseries are a great place to find native perennials. They usually stock plants that are well-suited to the local climate and soil conditions. You can also ask the staff for advice on which plants would work best in your garden.
3. Native Plant Societies: Native plant societies are organizations that are dedicated to promoting the use of native plants in gardening and landscaping. They often have events where you can purchase plants and talk to experts about their care and maintenance. Joining a society is also a great way to meet other gardeners and learn more about the benefits of native plants.
4. Seed Swaps: Seed swaps are events where gardeners gather to exchange seeds and plants. They can be a great source of hard-to-find varieties and can introduce you to new plants that you may not have considered before. Check online for local seed swap events.
5. Wildflower Walks: Look for guided wildflower walks in your area. Often held in nature reserves or parks, these walks will introduce you to the native plants of your region and help you learn to recognize them in the wild. You may also find plants for sale at these events.

With a little effort, you can find a wide variety of native perennials to add to your garden. By incorporating these plants, you can create a natural habitat, support local wildlife, and reduce the amount of maintenance required for your garden.