Mar 10 2010
Native Plants A Northern Garden Must Have
Winter is here. Your ground is rock hard. What is a garden landscaper to do? It seems as if the only thing you can do in the winter is make lists of things to do in the summer. Coneflower, Black-eyed Susan, Moonbeam Coreopsis, and False Indigo are just a few outstanding native plants that should be on any garden “to do” list. Why does it matter if you are using native plants? Choosing a native plant not only helps the wildlife in your garden, but saves water, time and money.
Coneflower or Echinacea is a native plant that is a wonderful contribution to any garden. It is a lovely pink lady that is like mother natures best friend. This plant looks great anywhere and everywhere. It also has roots that can survive in drought weather and clay soil. A prolific reseeder this plant will spread nicely over the years. It should certainly be at the top of any gardeners to plant list.
Black-eyed Susans should also be on a gardeners list of native plants to add to the garden. Black-eyed Susan or Rudebeckia is an abundant blooming yellow daisy like flower that is just gorgeous. These lovely native perennials will add dramatic effect to your landscape for years to come. They are native plants that act like bird feeders and insect feeders. These plants are prolific and rapidly mature into a stunning stand of yellow blooms. They can endure some very dry weather, they can be planted in sun or partial shade, and they are very versatile. Your garden will thank you if you add even just one of these plants to the landscape.
Moonbeam Coreopsis is a delightful addition to any garden. It is one of the few perennials that is blooming prolifically in the fall when just about every other plant has finished blooming. The unique yellow of this flower is a welcome change from the yellow orange one sees everywhere. This medium hight native has a whimsical, light and abundant feel about it. Moonbeam coreopsis will go the distance in your garden. It is drought tolerant, has abundant blooms and it thrives in clay and poor soil.
False Indigo or Baptisia is another native plant to consider for your garden because of it’s vibrant blue flowers. Most gardeners will attest to the challenge of getting some blue blooms in a landscape. This northern native is one of the best blue flowers you can choose. This native does not transplant so well and can be difficult to get established. It is a show stopper with upright bushy blue spires and elegant foliage. This plant likes full sun, partial shade, dry weather, wet weather and clay.
These are all great and versatile native plants to add to any garden. They continue to look good and contribute to your garden even after they are done blooming. A touch of ornamental grass, some gazing balls and some cool garden decor and your wish list is complete!
