Which Native Plants Should I Use?
So, you're ready to transform your garden with native plants? That’s a fantastic choice for creating a vibrant and sustainable landscape. With a plethora of resources available, identifying the right native plants for your home landscape can be straightforward and enjoyable. Here’s a list of some top resources for getting started:
1. Pollinator Partnership Planting Guides
For a user-friendly starting point, check out the Planting Guides from Pollinator Partnership. By entering your zip code, you can receive a customized guide for your specific ecoregion. This resource will provide you with a curated list of native plants suited for your area, making it easier to select species that will thrive in your local environment.
2. Find Your Roots Tool from Pollinator Partnership
If you're looking for a more detailed exploration of plant options, the Find Your Roots tool from Pollinator Partnership is invaluable. Enter your zip code and specify characteristics such as plant type and preferred growing conditions. Once you’ve created your list, you can download a comprehensive spreadsheet of your options for further research and planning.
3. North Carolina Extension Office
For those in the Piedmont ecoregion or nearby areas, the North Carolina Extension Office website is an excellent resource. It provides extensive plant information while allowing you to filter out problematic species like invasive plants, thorny varieties, or those that cause contact dermatitis. This feature helps you tailor your plant choices to create a garden that's not only beautiful but also safe and manageable.
4. Prairie Moon Nursery
If you prefer growing plants from seeds, Prairie Moon Nursery is a top choice. They also offer roots and plugs (trays of seedlings). Their website allows you to search for native plants based on your state, sun exposure, soil moisture, bloom time, and ecological benefits. This makes it easy to find plants that meet your specific gardening needs and contribute to local ecosystems.
5. Izel Native Plants
Izel Native Plants is new to me, and one I will be exploring for my fall planting htis year. They offer a wide selection of native plants sourced from multiple wholesalers. On their website, you can select “Native To” in the top menu to search for plants specific to your state. For even more detailed information, click on the “Maps, Wetland Status & More” tab for insights on whether the plant is native to your county. Izel focuses on the eastern half of the US. Click on their "Native To" link, and scroll down to see if they will ship to you.
By utilizing these resources, you'll be well-equipped to select native plants that are not only beautiful but also well-suited to your local environment. Happy planting!
