Plants
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So you're interested in Native Plants...
Native? What does that mean...
What are my options?
Clearly you're semi interested in native plants if you have found yourself here on the website. That's great! Let's talk through how to choose plants based on your site conditions and preferences. Walk yourself through the outlined prompts on this page and before you know it you'll be ordering your plants!
In short, plants that are considered 'native' are ones that would be found growing 'pre-settlement' (before the introduction of non-native plants). This matters because entire ecosystems evolved to work in a cyclical and integrated way, when you put something in that doesn't belong it causes problems!
Most of the native plants available here are perennials meaning they will overwinter and come back next year. There are a few that are considered biennials which have a 2 year life cycle before reseeding themselves. Lastly self seeding annuals are ones that live only one year before reseeding themselves. Take note of these things when planning out your gardens, some of the plants will move around!
Step One..
Sunny or Shady?
'Full sun' is considered 6 hours of direct sun or more per day...
Part Sun/Shade is 4-6 hours of direct sun per day
Shade is less than 4 hours of direct sunlight per day
Step Two..
Soil Moisture?
Wet Soils
fully saturated soil, creek sides, ponds, standing water
Medium Soils retain some moisture at times and can also dry out
Dry soils often drain quickly and therefor lack retained moisture
Step Three..
Other Considerations
Deer and Rabbits? Many native plants can handle browsing once established but my need a little extra protection during their first year or two.
Bloom time?
Bloom color?
Layering multiple species with varying bloom times in a garden is a great way to cultivate full season interest and pollinator food!
Desired plant height/size? Do you want to block the view to your neighbors yard? Hide your AC unit? Remember short plants in front, tall in the back.
One last thing I will leave you with, one advantage of using native plants is that there are examples of these plants growing in local ecosystems, so if you're wondering what to plant, look to some local precedents!
For instance, have a hot and dry boulevard? Take a look at a sunny bluffside goat prairie for some options. Have a wet soggy ditch by the road? Go to the marsh or a wetland to see inspiration!
Of course, there is more to consider, but this will put you on the right track for selecting plants that will grow well for you!