{"componentChunkName":"component---src-templates-blog-page-blog-page-js","path":"/blog/page/10/","result":{"pageContext":{"posts":[{"node":{"id":"90f2cfca-4a01-51d6-afdd-dc3bfd353626","slug":"best-native-plants-south-dakota","path":"/lawn-care/south-dakota/best-native-plants-south-dakota/","status":"publish","template":"","format":"standard","author":{"description":"Tatiana Barrie is a writer with a background in law and tech, passionate about environmental sustainability and animal welfare. When she’s not writing, Tatiana enjoys reading, camping, hiking, and traveling the world.","name":"Tatiana Barrie","id":"8c60c769-47b8-542b-b658-4947278b51c5","path":"/author/tatiana-barrie/","avatar_urls":{"wordpress_96":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/2efff47c9ef277fa369b6224bb184e40?s=96&d=mm&r=g"}},"categories":[{"id":"205f24d4-c1e5-5728-bb28-8ba70eecbc7a","name":"Lawn Care","count":432,"path":"/category/lawn-care/"},{"id":"eba14984-b582-5139-9a48-b2408169ef6a","name":"South Dakota","count":1,"path":"/category/lawn-care/south-dakota/"}],"date":"May 27th, 2023","excerpt":"<p>If you&#8217;ve ever tried to maintain a garden in the Mount Rushmore State, you know that South Dakota&#8217;s erratic weather can be both a blessing and a curse. While the hot and sunny summers encourage lush growth, the harsh winter blizzards and unpredictable storms can make it challenging to keep your yard thriving. The solution? [&hellip;]</p>\n","content":"\n<p>If you&#8217;ve ever tried to maintain a garden in the Mount Rushmore State, you know that South Dakota&#8217;s erratic weather can be both a blessing and a curse. While the hot and sunny summers encourage lush growth, the harsh winter blizzards and unpredictable storms can make it challenging to keep your yard thriving. The solution? Incorporating native plants. To help you get started, we’ve put together a list of the best native plants for South Dakota’s unique landscape.</p>\n\n\n\n<p>From the sweeping prairies of the Great Plains to the breathtaking beauty of the Black Hills, South Dakota is home to an impressive array of native plants that have adapted to the state’s extreme weather patterns. Adding these species to your lawn has many benefits, including:</p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Low maintenance: </strong>Native plants require less watering, fertilizing, and overall care, as they are already adapted to our soil and climate conditions.</li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Increased biodiversity: </strong>They’re great for promoting a diverse ecosystem in your yard, supporting pollinators, hummingbirds, and other wildlife that rely on these species for food and shelter.</li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Drought tolerance:</strong> They are generally more <a href=\"https://www.drought.gov/states/south-dakota\">drought-tolerant</a> than non-native species, so you won’t need to irrigate as much during South Dakota’s dry months.&nbsp;</li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Pest resistance: </strong>They are more resistant to local pests and diseases, which means you won’t have to rely as heavily on pesticides or other chemical treatments to keep your garden healthy and thriving.&nbsp;</li>\n</ul>\n\n\n\n<p>In this article, we’ll cover:</p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li><strong><a href=\"#Yard\">Native Plants for Your South Dakota Yard</a></strong>\n<ol>\n<li><strong><a href=\"#Maple\">Boxelder Maple</a></strong></li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"#Yarrow\">Common Yarrow</a></strong></li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"#Anemone\">Canadian Anemone</a></strong></li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"#Coneflower\">Narrowleaf Purple Coneflower</a></strong></li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"#Goldenrod\">Canada Goldenrod</a></strong></li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"#Nannyberry\">Nannyberry</a>&nbsp;</strong></li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"#Milkweed\">Swamp Milkweed</a></strong></li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"#Susan\">Black-Eyed Susan</a></strong></li>\n</ol>\n</li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"#Landscape\">How to Choose Native Plants for Your South Dakota Landscape</a></strong></li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"#Plants\">FAQ About Native South Dakota Plants</a></strong></li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"#Dakota\">Where to Find Native Plants in South Dakota</a></strong></li>\n</ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"Yard\">8 Native Plants for Your South Dakota Yard</h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"Maple\">1. Boxelder Maple <em>(Acer negundo L.)</em></h3>\n\n\n\n<p></p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"800\" height=\"531\" src=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/51140942935_cf1d07ffea_o-1.jpg\" alt=\"green leaves on brown stem of a plant\" class=\"wp-image-14850\" srcset=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/51140942935_cf1d07ffea_o-1.jpg 800w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/51140942935_cf1d07ffea_o-1-300x199.jpg 300w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/51140942935_cf1d07ffea_o-1-768x510.jpg 768w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/51140942935_cf1d07ffea_o-1-480x319.jpg 480w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" /></figure></div>\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\">Photo Credit: <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https://www.flickr.com/photos/tgerus/51140942935\" target=\"_blank\">Tatters</a> / Flickr / <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0/\" target=\"_blank\">CC BY 2.0</a></p>\n\n\n\n<p>The boxelder is a fast-growing deciduous tree particularly suited for the <strong>western two-thirds of South Dakota</strong>. You&#8217;ll often find it thriving along the stream banks, and even tucked away in canyon bottoms throughout the Great Plains. It&#8217;s a real champ when it comes to adapting to various soil types, from the sandy soils near the Missouri River to the clay-rich earth found in the Black Hills. And once it&#8217;s established, it can even handle the state’s frequent droughts.</p>\n\n\n\n<p>One of the best things about the boxelder is the generous shade it provides, making it a top choice for creating a cool and comfy spot in your yard to relax during South Dakota’s scorching summer days. But keep in mind that it can soar up to 80 feet tall and spread just as wide, so you need to make sure you give it plenty of room to grow.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Plant type: </strong>Tree</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>USDA Hardiness zones: </strong>2 to 9</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Sun: </strong>Full sun to partial shade</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Soil: </strong>Just about any well-drained soil</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Duration: </strong>Perennial</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Foliage: </strong>Deciduous</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Fragrance:</strong> Mild</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Bloom time: </strong>March &#8211; April</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Water needs: </strong>Medium, drought tolerant</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Mature height: </strong>30 to 80 feet</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Potential hazards:&nbsp; </strong>They are <a href=\"https://www.canr.msu.edu/news/boxelder_trees_are_toxic_to_horses\">toxic</a> to horses and some people get an allergic reaction from them.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Maintenance needs: </strong>&nbsp;Be careful not to overwater.&nbsp; It thrives best when the soil’s moisture varies.</p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"Yarrow\">2. Common Yarrow <em>(Achillea millefolium)</em></h3>\n\n\n\n<p></p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"800\" height=\"534\" src=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Common-Yarrow-Achillea-Millefolium.jpg\" alt=\"White Color small flower with blur background\" class=\"wp-image-15378\" srcset=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Common-Yarrow-Achillea-Millefolium.jpg 800w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Common-Yarrow-Achillea-Millefolium-300x200.jpg 300w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Common-Yarrow-Achillea-Millefolium-768x513.jpg 768w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Common-Yarrow-Achillea-Millefolium-600x400.jpg 600w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Common-Yarrow-Achillea-Millefolium-480x320.jpg 480w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" /></figure></div>\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\">Photo Credit: <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Common_Yarrow_%28Achillea_millefolium%29.jpg\" target=\"_blank\">Jitaeri</a> / Wikimedia Commons / <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0\" target=\"_blank\">CC BY-SA 4.0</a> </p>\n\n\n\n<p>Common yarrow is easily recognizable by its feathery, fern-like leaves and clusters of tiny, white to pale pink flowers that form a flat-topped bloom. <strong>It can grow in most of South Dakota’s yards</strong>. However, you&#8217;ll find it <strong>naturally growing around the northern and southern edges of the Black Hills</strong>, like in Custer, Fall River, and Pennington County.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p>Growing up to 3 feet tall, the common yarrow has a spreading growth habit, making it an excellent choice for ground cover or as a border plant. It prefers well-drained sandy and loamy soils, but can tolerate other soil types, such as clay.</p>\n\n\n\n<p>It’s a sun-lover, thriving in full sun exposure, but it&#8217;s also pretty adaptable and can handle a bit of light shade. Now, it might require some extra attention to keep it from taking over other plants in your garden.</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Plant type: </strong>Herb</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>USDA Hardiness zones: </strong>4 to 8</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Sun: </strong>Full to partial sun</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Soil: </strong>Well drained soil, Prefers sandy loams</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Duration: </strong>Perennial</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Foliage: </strong>Evergreen</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Fragrance:</strong> Spicey</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Bloom time: </strong>April &#8211; September</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Water needs: </strong>Medium, Drought tolerant</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Mature height: </strong>3 feet</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Potential hazards:&nbsp; </strong>Poisonous to humans, pets, and horses when ingested in large quantities.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Maintenance needs: </strong>&nbsp;Regularly prune and deadhead.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"Anemone\">3. Canadian Anemone <em>(Anemone canadensis)</em></h3>\n\n\n\n<p></p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"800\" height=\"600\" src=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Canadian-Anemone.jpg\" alt=\"Canadian Anemone\" class=\"wp-image-15884\" srcset=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Canadian-Anemone.jpg 800w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Canadian-Anemone-300x225.jpg 300w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Canadian-Anemone-768x576.jpg 768w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Canadian-Anemone-510x382.jpg 510w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Canadian-Anemone-480x360.jpg 480w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" /></figure></div>\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\">Photo Credit: <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Anemone_canadensis01.jpg\" target=\"_blank\">Meneerke bloem</a> / Wikimedia Commons / <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0\" target=\"_blank\">CC BY-SA 3.0</a></p>\n\n\n\n<p>While its common name is Canadian anemone, this species is actually a fantastic native plant for South Dakota gardens, too. It grows well in the sandy and loamy soils of both the <strong>northern and southern regions of the state</strong>. </p>\n\n\n\n<p>Now, it prefers moderately moist soils, so it’s perfect for planting near a pond. If you don&#8217;t have a water feature, that’s okay; it can also tolerate drier conditions, which is great news if you live somewhere with low precipitation levels, like Sioux Falls.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p>When it comes to planting Canadian anemone, it&#8217;s a good idea to give it some space, as it tends to spread and form colonies. This makes it an excellent ground cover option, especially in shady areas where other plants might struggle. Just remember to keep an eye on it to ensure it doesn&#8217;t become too invasive.</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Plant type: </strong>Herb</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>USDA Hardiness zones: </strong>3 to 8</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Sun: </strong>Partial shade to full shade</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Soil: </strong>Moderately moist, sandy soil</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Duration: </strong>Perennial</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Bloom time: </strong>April to August</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Water needs: </strong>Medium; water weekly or when topsoil is completely dry</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Mature height: </strong>Up to about 30 inches tall</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Potential hazards: </strong>Toxic to humans and pets if eaten in large quantities</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Maintenance: </strong>Low; keep the soil moist</p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"Coneflower\">4. Narrowleaf Purple Coneflower <em>(Echinacea angustifolia)</em></h3>\n\n\n\n<p></p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"800\" height=\"600\" src=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Narrowleaf-Purple-Coneflower.jpg\" alt=\"pink colored flowers\" class=\"wp-image-15977\" srcset=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Narrowleaf-Purple-Coneflower.jpg 800w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Narrowleaf-Purple-Coneflower-300x225.jpg 300w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Narrowleaf-Purple-Coneflower-768x576.jpg 768w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Narrowleaf-Purple-Coneflower-510x382.jpg 510w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Narrowleaf-Purple-Coneflower-480x360.jpg 480w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" /></figure></div>\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\">Photo Credit: <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Echinacea_angustifolia.jpg\" target=\"_blank\">Dy-e</a> / Wikimedia Commons / <a href=\"https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0/deed.en\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">CC BY-SA 3.0</a></p>\n\n\n\n<p>Narrowleaf purple coneflower is a true gem among South Dakota&#8217;s native plants. This perennial herb, with its striking purple flowers and distinctive central cone, is a pollinator magnet. So if you’re looking to attract wildlife to your garden, this might be the perfect addition. Plus,<strong> it can grow statewide</strong>, whether you&#8217;re in Sioux Falls, Rapid City, or anywhere in between.</p>\n\n\n\n<p>Not only is this plant visually appealing, but it’s also incredibly easy to care for. Once established, it can survive with little to no supplemental watering. Additionally, its deep taproot system allows it to thrive in a variety of soil types without the need for constant fertilization. However, one potential drawback of the narrowleaf purple coneflower is its tendency to self-seed and spread throughout your garden.</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Plant type:</strong> Herb</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>USDA Hardiness zones: </strong>3 to 8</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Sun: </strong>Full sun to partial shade</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Soil: </strong>Dry; clay, loamy, and sandy</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Duration: </strong>Perennial</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Fragrance: </strong>Light, sweet, honey-like</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Bloom time: </strong>Late summer &#8211; early fall</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Water needs: </strong>Low</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Mature height: </strong>Up to 28 feet</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Maintenance: </strong>Low</p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"Goldenrod\">5. Canada Goldenrod <em>(Solidago canadensis L.)</em></h3>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"800\" height=\"600\" src=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Canada-Goldenrod.jpg\" alt=\"yellow colored flowers\" class=\"wp-image-15979\" srcset=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Canada-Goldenrod.jpg 800w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Canada-Goldenrod-300x225.jpg 300w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Canada-Goldenrod-768x576.jpg 768w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Canada-Goldenrod-510x382.jpg 510w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Canada-Goldenrod-480x360.jpg 480w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" /></figure></div>\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\">Photo Credit: <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https://www.flickr.com/photos/anemoneprojectors/10169466724\" target=\"_blank\">Peter O&#8217;Connor aka anemoneprojectors</a> / Flickr / <a href=\"https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/2.0/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">CC BY-SA 2.0</a></p>\n\n\n\n<p>Canada goldenrod is another great choice. Known for its bright yellow flowers and tall, slender stems, this plant thrives in the <strong>eastern part of the state</strong>, and can also be found in the <strong>central region</strong>, <strong>near the north part of the Missouri River</strong>, where it benefits from the fertile sandy soil. While it might not grow well in Harding, Butte, Meade, or Jackson County, it adapts pretty well to the <strong>southwestern and northwestern regions of the Black Hills</strong>. </p>\n\n\n\n<p>You can plant it in borders or along fences to create a vibrant, eye-catching display. It has a moderate shade tolerance and can grow in areas with dappled sunlight, such as beneath trees or near larger shrubs and bushes that cast shade. Keep in mind though, that Canada goldenrod can be prone to fungal diseases, such as powdery mildew, particularly when grown in areas with high humidity or poor air circulation.</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Plant type: </strong>Herb</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>USDA Hardiness zones: </strong>3 to 9</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Sun:</strong> Full sun to partial shade</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Soil: </strong>Dry and moist soils; sandy, loam, and clay.</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Duration: </strong>Perennial</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Fragrance: </strong>Mild</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Bloom Time: </strong>August &#8211; November</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Water needs: </strong>Medium</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Mature height: </strong>Up to 6 feet</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Maintenance: </strong>Low to Medium.</p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"Nannyberry\">6. Nannyberry <em>(Viburnum lentago)</em></h3>\n\n\n\n<p></p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"800\" height=\"573\" src=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Nannyberry-1.jpg\" alt=\"closeup image of nannyberry plant\" class=\"wp-image-15404\" srcset=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Nannyberry-1.jpg 800w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Nannyberry-1-300x215.jpg 300w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Nannyberry-1-768x550.jpg 768w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Nannyberry-1-480x344.jpg 480w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" /></figure></div>\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\">Photo Credit: <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https://www.flickr.com/photos/douglas_mcgrady/32047714591\" target=\"_blank\">Doug McGrady</a> / Flickr / <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0/\" target=\"_blank\">CC BY 2.0</a></p>\n\n\n\n<p>Nannyberry is a multi-stemmed shrub that can grow up to 20 feet tall and wide, making it an excellent choice for creating natural privacy screens or borders. In the spring, it produces clusters of fragrant, creamy-white flowers that attract pollinators, such as bees and butterflies. </p>\n\n\n\n<p>It thrives in <strong>various regions of South Dakota</strong>, with a particular affinity for the <strong>eastern part of the state</strong>, in countries like Marshall, Roberts, Brookings, and Union. It can also grow well in the <strong>Black Hills</strong> (Harding, Pennington, and Lawrence), where the cooler temperatures and higher elevations provide a suitable environment.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Plant type:</strong> Shrub or small tree</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>USDA Hardiness zones:</strong> 2 to 8</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Sun: </strong>Full sun to full shade</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Soil:</strong> Clay, loam, sand, moist, well-drained soil</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Duration:</strong> Perennial&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Fragrance</strong>: N/A</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Bloom time:</strong> April &#8211; June</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Water needs: </strong>Medium</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Mature height:</strong> 10 &#8211; 20 feet</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Maintenance:</strong> Low</p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"Milkweed\">7. Swamp Milkweed (<em>Asclepias incarnate</em>)</h3>\n\n\n\n<p></p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"800\" height=\"582\" src=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Swamp-Milkweed-Asclepias-incarnata.jpg\" alt=\"Pink Color Flower\" class=\"wp-image-15166\" srcset=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Swamp-Milkweed-Asclepias-incarnata.jpg 800w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Swamp-Milkweed-Asclepias-incarnata-300x218.jpg 300w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Swamp-Milkweed-Asclepias-incarnata-768x559.jpg 768w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Swamp-Milkweed-Asclepias-incarnata-480x349.jpg 480w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" /></figure></div>\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\">Photo Credit: <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https://www.flickr.com/photos/wackybadger/23202355142\" target=\"_blank\">Joshua Mayer</a> / Flickr / <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/2.0/\" target=\"_blank\">CC BY-SA 2.0</a></p>\n\n\n\n<p>Swamp milkweed is a tall herb perennial that can reach heights of 4 to 6 feet, making it an eye-catching addition to any garden. Its showy clusters of pink flowers bloom from mid-summer to early fall, and provide the essential food source for Monarch butterfly caterpillars. While it’s low maintenance, you’ll need to regularly deadhead the spent flowers to prevent self-seeding, and keep an eye on the plant&#8217;s growth to ensure it doesn&#8217;t encroach on neighboring plants.</p>\n\n\n\n<p>It grows best in the <strong>southwestern counties of South Dakota</strong>, such as Fall River, Bennett, and Tripp, where the soil is moist and fertile. It’s also well-suited to<strong> eastern areas near rivers</strong>, such as Brule, and <strong>other regions in the east part of the state </strong>(for example, Clark, Roberts, and McCook counties).</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Plant type:</strong> Herb</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>USDA Hardiness Zone: </strong>3 to 9</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Sun: </strong>Full sun to partial shade</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Soil: </strong>Organically rich, slightly acidic, well-drained soil</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Duration: </strong>Perennial</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Fragrance: </strong>Sweet smelling</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Bloom time: </strong>Midsummer to fall</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Water needs: </strong>High</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Mature height: </strong>4 to 6 feet</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Potential hazards:</strong> Poisonous to humans, pets, and other animals if ingested.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Maintenance:</strong> Low</p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"Susan\">8. Black-Eyed Susan (<em>Rudbeckia hirta</em>)</h3>\n\n\n\n<p></p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"800\" height=\"555\" src=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Black-eyed-Susan-Rudbeckia-hirta-3.jpg\" alt=\"Yellow Color Black eyed susan flower\" class=\"wp-image-15691\" srcset=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Black-eyed-Susan-Rudbeckia-hirta-3.jpg 800w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Black-eyed-Susan-Rudbeckia-hirta-3-300x208.jpg 300w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Black-eyed-Susan-Rudbeckia-hirta-3-768x533.jpg 768w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Black-eyed-Susan-Rudbeckia-hirta-3-480x333.jpg 480w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" /></figure></div>\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\">Photo Credit: <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https://www.flickr.com/photos/volvob12b/18978433569\" target=\"_blank\">Bernard Spragg. NZ</a> / Flickr / <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https://creativecommons.org/publicdomain/zero/1.0/\" target=\"_blank\">CC0 1.0</a></p>\n\n\n\n<p>Black-eyed Susan is a versatile plant that can grow well in various regions of South Dakota, particularly in the <strong>southwestern and northeastern edges of the state</strong>. It’s drought-tolerant and can even thrive in the more arid regions of Mount Rushmore State. However, it may not perform as well in areas with consistently wet or poorly-draining soil. </p>\n\n\n\n<p>This plant thrives in full sun but can tolerate partial shade, and it’s also quite cold-hardy, which means it can survive South Dakota’s harsh winters without a problem. Now, black-eyed Susan is a short-lived species, meaning individual plants may only last for a few years. However, the plant&#8217;s self-seeding nature typically ensures a continuous presence in your garden.</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Plant type:</strong> Flower</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>USDA Hardiness Zone: </strong>3 to 9</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Sun: </strong>Full sun. Can tolerate some partial shade</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Soil: </strong>Dry, moist, well drained soils.</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Duration: </strong>Annual , Perennial, or Biennial depending on growing conditions</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Fragrance: </strong>Sweet</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Bloom time: </strong>Early summer to early fall (Jun &#8211; Sept)</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Water needs: </strong>Medium</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Mature height: </strong>1 to 3 feet</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Maintenance:</strong> Low. During its first season, it should be irrigated with only one inch of water per week – once established, it’ll be drought-resistant.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"Landscape\">How to Choose Native Plants for Your South Dakota Yard&nbsp;</h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Before selecting native plants for your lawn, it&#8217;s essential to keep in mind a few things:</p>\n\n\n\n<p>First, think about your lawn. How much sunlight exposure does it have? What’s the predominant soil type? Some native plants<em> </em>will thrive in shaded yards, but others, like the black-eyed Susan, need full sun exposure.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p>Similarly, certain plants are well-adapted to dry, sandy soils, while others require moist or well-draining soils. Knowing your yard&#8217;s quirks will help you pick native plants that&#8217;ll feel right at home.</p>\n\n\n\n<p>Next, consider your location within South Dakota and its corresponding <a href=\"https://planthardiness.ars.usda.gov/\">USDA hardiness zone</a>. South Dakota spans zones 3 to 5, with colder temperatures in the northern regions and warmer conditions in the southern areas. Select native species that are well-suited to your zone to ensure they can withstand the local climate and temperature extremes.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p>Maintenance requirements are another crucial factor to consider. You need to choose plants that match your gardening style and commitment level, so you don&#8217;t end up in over your head.</p>\n\n\n\n<p>Finally, while we&#8217;ve covered some of the best native plants for South Dakota here, there are many other options to also check out. For example:</p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>Lindley&#8217;s aster <em>(Aster ciliolatus)</em></li>\n\n\n\n<li>Black Walnut <em>(Juglans nigra)</em></li>\n\n\n\n<li>Rough Blazing Star<em> (Liatris aspera)</em></li>\n\n\n\n<li>Common Evening primrose <em>(Oenothera biennis)</em></li>\n\n\n\n<li>Wild Bergamot (Monarda fistulosa)</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Harebell <em>(Campanula rotundifolia)</em></li>\n</ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"Plants\">FAQ About Native South Dakota Plants</h2>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"schema-faq wp-block-yoast-faq-block\"><div class=\"schema-faq-section\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">What plants are native to Sioux Falls?</strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">Sioux Falls is home to a wide variety of native plant species. Some popular options include:<br/><br/>● Red Columbine <em>(Aquilegia canadensis)</em><br/>● Swamp Verbena <em>(Verbena hastata)</em><br/>● Nannyberry <em>(Viburnum lentago)</em><br/> <br/> </p> </div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">What plants are native to Rapid City?</strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">You&#8217;ll find a range of native wildflowers, shrubs, and trees in the Rapid City area. For example: <br/><br/>● Fireweed <em>(Chamerion angustifolium)</em><br/>● Tall Thimbleweed<em> (Anemone virginiana)</em><br/>● Common Yarrow <em>(Achillea millefolium)</em><br/> <br/> </p> </div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">What plants are native to Northeastern South Dakota?</strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">Northeastern South Dakota is home to a variety of native plants that have adapted to the region&#8217;s climate and soil conditions. Some of the plants you&#8217;ll find in this area include:<br/><br/>● Black-Eyed Susan <em>(Rudbeckia hirta)</em><br/>● Narrowleaf Purple Coneflower<em> (Echinacea angustifolia)</em><br/>● Big Bluestem <em>(Andropogon gerardii)</em><br/> <br/> </p> </div> </div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"Dakota\">Where to Find Native Plants in South Dakota</h2>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Local nurseries</strong> are an invaluable resource for finding native plants that are well-suited to your garden&#8217;s specific needs. They can provide expert advice on which plants will thrive in your area and offer a wide selection of native species to choose from.</p>\n\n\n\n<p>Incorporating native plants into your garden can truly transform your outdoor space, creating a beautiful and sustainable landscape that reflects the unique character of Mount Rushmore State. However, to keep your garden looking its best, it&#8217;s essential to maintain it properly —and that means pruning, edging, and mowing among many other things.</p>\n\n\n\n<p>If you want to keep your yard healthy and vibrant without the stress of constant upkeep, hire a <a href=\"https://www.wikilawn.com/\">lawn care expert near you</a> today.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p>Main Image Credit: <a href=\"https://pxhere.com/en/photo/1424515\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Pxhere</a></p>\n","title":"8 Best Native Plants for South Dakota","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.3333333333333333,"src":"/static/14d62f0c946cd4d6eb219dd756d65212/1789c/Nannyberry-2.jpg","srcSet":"/static/14d62f0c946cd4d6eb219dd756d65212/107df/Nannyberry-2.jpg 320w,\n/static/14d62f0c946cd4d6eb219dd756d65212/293e9/Nannyberry-2.jpg 500w,\n/static/14d62f0c946cd4d6eb219dd756d65212/f2cbb/Nannyberry-2.jpg 800w,\n/static/14d62f0c946cd4d6eb219dd756d65212/1789c/Nannyberry-2.jpg 960w,\n/static/14d62f0c946cd4d6eb219dd756d65212/c26c2/Nannyberry-2.jpg 1200w","srcWebp":"/static/14d62f0c946cd4d6eb219dd756d65212/1dd6e/Nannyberry-2.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/14d62f0c946cd4d6eb219dd756d65212/67b76/Nannyberry-2.webp 320w,\n/static/14d62f0c946cd4d6eb219dd756d65212/8df11/Nannyberry-2.webp 500w,\n/static/14d62f0c946cd4d6eb219dd756d65212/98a65/Nannyberry-2.webp 800w,\n/static/14d62f0c946cd4d6eb219dd756d65212/1dd6e/Nannyberry-2.webp 960w,\n/static/14d62f0c946cd4d6eb219dd756d65212/3cc96/Nannyberry-2.webp 1200w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"8 Best Native Plants for South Dakota | Wikilawn","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":"Want to attract more wildlife to your yard? Transform your yard into a thriving, eco-friendly space with these eight best native plants for South Dakota."}}},{"node":{"id":"1317afa2-6990-56ff-b781-6b3693010f0c","slug":"drought-tolerant-landscaping-ideas-oklahoma","path":"/lawn-care/ok/drought-tolerant-landscaping-ideas-oklahoma/","status":"publish","template":"","format":"standard","author":{"description":"Based in the south of France, Jeffery holds a master of science degree from the International University of Monaco. His hobbies include hiking, cycling, and traveling across Europe.","name":"Jeffery Keusseyan","id":"75c05140-c87e-540a-8d34-da174527f4cc","path":"/author/jeffery-keusseyan/","avatar_urls":{"wordpress_96":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/12a7b239a959b7f6feee4e4b9495d63f?s=96&d=mm&r=g"}},"categories":[{"id":"205f24d4-c1e5-5728-bb28-8ba70eecbc7a","name":"Lawn Care","count":432,"path":"/category/lawn-care/"},{"id":"d2d6ff96-cc14-5d0f-bbfe-f7eac3bba6d9","name":"Oklahoma","count":7,"path":"/category/lawn-care/ok/"}],"date":"May 27th, 2023","excerpt":"<p>Several parts of Oklahoma are prone to tough periods of drought, especially in northwest counties, such as Cimarron, Texas, and Beaver. If you reside in similarly affected areas, it is vital you design a landscape that can tolerate drought conditions. If not, your yard could require plenty of maintenance and constant spending. So we’ve compiled [&hellip;]</p>\n","content":"\n<p>Several parts of Oklahoma are prone to tough periods of drought, especially in northwest counties, such as Cimarron, Texas, and Beaver. If you reside in similarly affected areas, it is vital you design a landscape that can tolerate drought conditions. If not, your yard could require plenty of maintenance and constant spending. So we’ve compiled a list of drought-tolerant landscaping ideas for Oklahoma, helping you spruce up your backyard in an efficient, cost-effective manner.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p>In this article, we will cover:</p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"#what\">What is a Drought-Tolerant Landscape?</a></li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"#ideas\">8 Drought-Tolerant Landscaping Ideas</a>\n<ol>\n<li><a href=\"#native\">Native Plants</a></li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"#rain\">Rain Garden</a></li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"#artificial\">Artificial Grass</a></li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"#mulch\">Mulch</a></li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"#drip\">Drip Irrigation</a></li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"#rock\">Rock Garden</a></li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"#hardscapes\">Hardscapes</a></li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"#xeriscaping\">Xeriscaping</a></li>\n</ol>\n</li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"#why\">Why Choose a Drought-Tolerant Landscape</a></li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"#faq\">FAQ About Drought-Tolerant Landscaping</a></li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"#get\">Get a Drought-Tolerant Landscape With a Pro</a></li>\n</ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"what\">What is a Drought-Tolerant Landscape?&nbsp;</h2>\n\n\n\n<p>When a landscape is drought-tolerant, it can thrive with little to no supplemental water. It consists of boulders, hardscapes, native perennials, and other features that are considered low-maintenance. Essentially, they are features or plants that can withstand dry periods.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p>However, drought-tolerant does not mean zero water needs. Native plants that tolerate drought may still require some amount of water to grow or survive. They are not entirely resistant to drought, but their water needs are quite low compared to other high-maintenance plants. This is one of the key purposes of a drought-tolerant landscape— conserving water!</p>\n\n\n\n<p>The upcoming section will cover 8 ideas for a drought-tolerant landscape, including hardscapes and artificial turfgrass.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"ideas\">8 Drought-Tolerant Landscaping Ideas</h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"native\">1. Native Plants</h3>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"800\" height=\"600\" src=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Bur-Oak-Quercus-Macrocarpa.jpg\" alt=\"Bur Oak Tree\" class=\"wp-image-15781\" srcset=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Bur-Oak-Quercus-Macrocarpa.jpg 800w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Bur-Oak-Quercus-Macrocarpa-300x225.jpg 300w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Bur-Oak-Quercus-Macrocarpa-768x576.jpg 768w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Bur-Oak-Quercus-Macrocarpa-510x382.jpg 510w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Bur-Oak-Quercus-Macrocarpa-480x360.jpg 480w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" /></figure></div>\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\">Photo Credit: <a href=\"https://www.flickr.com/photos/plant_diversity/5108085936\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Matt Lavin</a> / Flickr / <a href=\"https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/2.0/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">CC BY-SA 2.0</a></p>\n\n\n\n<p></p>\n\n\n\n<p>Native plants grow naturally in Oklahoma, comfortably able to thrive as they are accustomed to its climate and soil conditions. Going native can reduce the amount of time spent on maintenance, attract hummingbirds and beneficial pollinators, and boost the local ecosystem.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p>However, not all <a href=\"https://www.wikilawn.com/lawn-care/ok/best-native-plants-oklahoma/\">Oklahoma native plants</a> are able to withstand dry periods. Some trees or wildflowers require plenty of water to grow, so they are obviously not a good fit for your low-maintenance landscape. Additionally, you need to consider your area’s <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https://www.plantmaps.com/interactive-oklahoma-usda-plant-zone-hardiness-map.php\" target=\"_blank\">plant hardiness zone</a> to select the right drought-tolerant plants.</p>\n\n\n\n<p>To help your decision-making process, below are some suggestions for native drought-tolerant plants:</p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>Bur oak (<em>Quercus macrocarpa</em>)&nbsp;</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Marigold (<em>Tagetes</em>)</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Red hot poker (<em>Kniphofia triangularis</em>)</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Prickly pear (<em>Opuntia macrorhiza</em>)</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Russian sage (<em>Perovskia atriplicifolia</em>)&nbsp;</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Autumn sage (<em>Salvia greggii</em>)&nbsp;</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Verbena (<em>Verbena canadensis</em>)</li>\n</ul>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Estimated cost:</strong> Depending on the plant’s size and type,<strong> </strong>expect to pay between<strong> $600 and $3,000 per flower bed</strong>, <strong>$25 and $50 per shrub, $150 and $3,000 per tree.</strong></p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"rain\">2. Rain Garden</h3>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"800\" height=\"600\" src=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Rain-Garden.jpg\" alt=\"Rain garden\" class=\"wp-image-15962\" srcset=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Rain-Garden.jpg 800w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Rain-Garden-300x225.jpg 300w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Rain-Garden-768x576.jpg 768w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Rain-Garden-510x382.jpg 510w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Rain-Garden-480x360.jpg 480w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" /></figure></div>\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\">Photo Credit: <a href=\"https://www.flickr.com/photos/oregonstateuniversity/4905248754\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Oregon State University</a> / Flickr / <a href=\"https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/2.0/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">CC BY-SA 2.0</a></p>\n\n\n\n<p></p>\n\n\n\n<p>A rain garden is a planted depression that collects rainwater runoff from the surrounding landscapes. For this type of garden, the soil and plants are uniquely selected to absorb the collected water. You can also add local rocks to the rain garden, to set garden borders or just to increase your yard’s visual appeal. In a way, a rain garden lets mother nature do all the watering for us.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p>In addition to conserving water, here are some key benefits of a rain garden:</p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>Can absorb <a href=\"https://extension.okstate.edu/fact-sheets/sustainable-landscapes-designing-a-rain-garden-for-residential-property.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">30%</a> more rainwater than a regular lawn</li>\n\n\n\n<li>More cost-effective than pipes and drains</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Can filter pollutants carried by rainwater; improve its quality before it reaches local rivers and lakes</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Natural habitat for birds, butterflies, and other wildlife</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Reduce chances of flooding on the property</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Add beauty to your landscape, increase property value</li>\n</ul>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Estimated cost:</strong> Installing a rain garden yourself will cost <strong>$3 to $5 per square foot</strong>, depending on the materials and plants you use. If you decide to hire a professional, installation may cost between <strong>$10 and $15 per square foot</strong>.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"artificial\">3. Artificial Grass</h3>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"800\" height=\"600\" src=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Artificial-turf-1.jpg\" alt=\"Artificial turf\" class=\"wp-image-15963\" srcset=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Artificial-turf-1.jpg 800w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Artificial-turf-1-300x225.jpg 300w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Artificial-turf-1-768x576.jpg 768w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Artificial-turf-1-510x382.jpg 510w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Artificial-turf-1-480x360.jpg 480w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" /></figure></div>\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\">Photo Credit: <a href=\"https://www.flickr.com/photos/sarahvain/51713865059\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Sarah Stierch</a> / Flickr / <a href=\"https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">CC BY 2.0</a></p>\n\n\n\n<p></p>\n\n\n\n<p>If you wish a green lawn all year round, artificial grass is the way to go. You won’t have to worry about any damage from your kids running around playing lawn games. Just when you think it couldn’t get any better, synthetic turf doesn’t require any water! Artificial grass can withstand harsh weather conditions, including periods of drought.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p>Despite its high upfront cost, it can be a worthwhile investment and a terrific option for a drought-tolerant landscape.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p>Here are some benefits of artificial grass:</p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>Reduces the need for chemical fertilizers and pesticides</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Water-efficient</li>\n\n\n\n<li>No need to hire a lawn care professional</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Long-lasting solution</li>\n</ul>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Estimated cost:</strong> Hiring a professional landscaper to install artificial grass will cost you between <strong>$5 and $20 per square foot </strong>on average<strong>.&nbsp;</strong></p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"mulch\">4. Mulch</h3>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"800\" height=\"532\" src=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Garden-with-red-bark-mulch.jpg\" alt=\"Garden with red bark mulch\" class=\"wp-image-15964\" srcset=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Garden-with-red-bark-mulch.jpg 800w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Garden-with-red-bark-mulch-300x200.jpg 300w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Garden-with-red-bark-mulch-768x511.jpg 768w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Garden-with-red-bark-mulch-600x400.jpg 600w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Garden-with-red-bark-mulch-480x319.jpg 480w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" /></figure></div>\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\">Photo Credit: <a href=\"https://www.canva.com/photos/MADavUQ0TS4-garden-with-red-bark-mulch/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">U. J. Alexander</a> / Canva Pro / <a href=\"https://www.canva.com/policies/content-license-agreement/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">License</a></p>\n\n\n\n<p></p>\n\n\n\n<p>Simply put, mulch is an easy and cheap way to keep your garden bed hydrated. If you add some on top of deep-rooted plants with low water needs, you’ll get yourself a drought-tolerant yard. Mulch keeps your plant beds moist during the dry summer heat. You can add organic mulch that benefits the soil, or go for the aesthetically pleasing option with inorganic mulch.</p>\n\n\n\n<p>Organic mulch:</p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>Not made of synthetic materials&nbsp;</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Can suppress weeds, but not as efficient as inorganic mulch</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Best for adding beneficial nutrients to the soil</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Includes bark, grass clippings, and shredded leaves</li>\n</ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Inorganic mulch:</p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>Doesn’t add nutrients to the soil</li>\n\n\n\n<li>No natural materials</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Best for fully blocking weeds</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Includes gravel and stone, plastic and landscape fabric</li>\n</ul>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Advantages of mulch:</strong></p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>Adds nutrients to the soil (if organic)</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Regulates soil temperature</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Protects roots from harsh weather</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Controls the growth of weeds</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Retains moisture in the soil</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Valuable component for a drought-tolerant landscape</li>\n</ul>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Estimated cost:</strong> This depends on which type of mulch you choose. Wood mulch costs between <strong>$3 to $5 per 2 cubic foot bag, </strong>while landscape gravel costs between <strong>$4 to $30 per 0.5 cubic foot bag.</strong></p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"drip\">5. Drip Irrigation</h3>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"800\" height=\"531\" src=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Drip-Irrigation-Detail.jpg\" alt=\"Drip Irrigation Detail\" class=\"wp-image-15965\" srcset=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Drip-Irrigation-Detail.jpg 800w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Drip-Irrigation-Detail-300x199.jpg 300w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Drip-Irrigation-Detail-768x510.jpg 768w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Drip-Irrigation-Detail-480x319.jpg 480w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" /></figure></div>\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\">Photo Credit: <a href=\"https://www.canva.com/photos/MAEEvd1uW24-drip-irrigation-detail/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">GrigoriosMoraitis</a> / Canva Pro / <a href=\"https://www.canva.com/policies/content-license-agreement/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">License</a></p>\n\n\n\n<p></p>\n\n\n\n<p>Drip irrigation will prevent water being wasted by runoff or evaporated. This installation applies water at the plant root zone where it’s needed the most. Because of this, soil moisture levels are kept at an optimal level. You can apply drip irrigation in your vegetable or perennial garden, even to water shrubs or trees. Overall, it is an efficient and economical way to water your garden.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p>Here are some other benefits of drip irrigation:</p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>Saves money, time, and water</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Keeps rows between plants dry, reducing weed growth</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Reduces leaching of water below the plant root zone</li>\n</ul>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Estimated cost:</strong> Most homeowners pay between <strong>$295 and $775</strong> for a drip irrigation system.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"rock\">6. Rock Garden</h3>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"800\" height=\"600\" src=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Rock-Garden-1.jpg\" alt=\"Rock Garden\" class=\"wp-image-15966\" srcset=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Rock-Garden-1.jpg 800w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Rock-Garden-1-300x225.jpg 300w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Rock-Garden-1-768x576.jpg 768w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Rock-Garden-1-510x382.jpg 510w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Rock-Garden-1-480x360.jpg 480w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" /></figure></div>\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\">Photo Credit: <a href=\"https://www.canva.com/photos/MADFZuhNL8Q-rock-garden/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">LookTarn</a> / Canva Pro / <a href=\"https://www.canva.com/policies/content-license-agreement/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">License</a></p>\n\n\n\n<p></p>\n\n\n\n<p>If you’re looking for an alternative to turfgrasses, look no further than a rock garden. With low water and maintenance needs, a rock garden takes trimming, weeding, and mowing off your to-do list. It features carefully arranged rocks, boulders, or stones. Consider adding succulents or perennial flowers to create a beautiful, colorful, and inviting garden.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p>If designing a rock garden seems like a back-breaking task, stick to smaller boulders or stones that can easily be moved around. This would allow you to reshape your garden whenever you feel like mixing things up a little.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Estimated cost:</strong> Rock garden projects will cost you between <strong>$600 and $700</strong> on average. To buy and install rocks or boulders yourself, the cost will range from <strong>$460 to $1,000, </strong>depending on the size and type of rock.<strong>&nbsp;</strong></p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"hardscapes\">7. Hardscapes</h3>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"800\" height=\"532\" src=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Stack-of-Brick-Pavers-for-Hardscape.jpg\" alt=\"Stack of Brick Pavers and a Hardscape\" class=\"wp-image-15967\" srcset=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Stack-of-Brick-Pavers-for-Hardscape.jpg 800w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Stack-of-Brick-Pavers-for-Hardscape-300x200.jpg 300w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Stack-of-Brick-Pavers-for-Hardscape-768x511.jpg 768w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Stack-of-Brick-Pavers-for-Hardscape-600x400.jpg 600w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Stack-of-Brick-Pavers-for-Hardscape-480x319.jpg 480w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" /></figure></div>\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\">Photo Credit: <a href=\"https://www.canva.com/photos/MAC9UDOx__0-stack-of-brick-pavers-for-hardscape/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">JPLDesigns</a> / Canva Pro / <a href=\"https://www.canva.com/policies/content-license-agreement/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">License</a></p>\n\n\n\n<p></p>\n\n\n\n<p>&nbsp;Hardscapes are naturally low-maintenance features that are perfect for a drought-tolerant landscape. They are non-living elements that can improve your outdoor space functions. Unsurprisingly, they require no watering, pruning, or fertilizing. It’s great being able to relax with your family and friends around a fire pit, not worrying about countless hours of outdoor chores.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p>These decorative and practical structures may still require some care, such as basic cleaning. Unless something goes majorly wrong, hardscaping does not require continuous maintenance for long periods of time.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p>Here are some examples of hardscaping for a drought-tolerant yard:</p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>Walkways</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Fountains</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Patios</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Decks</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Fire pits</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Fencing</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Outdoor kitchen</li>\n</ul>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Estimated cost:</strong> The cost will depend on the project size and type of feature you choose. Expect to pay between <strong>$2,000 and $4,500</strong> for fencing, <strong>$370 and $2,235</strong> for a fire pit, <strong>$5,055 and $17,275</strong> for an outdoor kitchen.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"xeriscaping\">8. Xeriscaping</h3>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"800\" height=\"450\" src=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Xeriscaped-Front-Yard-with-Dry-Creek-Bed-and-Solar-Lighting.jpg\" alt=\"Xeriscaped Front Yard with Dry Creek Bed and Solar Lighting\" class=\"wp-image-15968\" srcset=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Xeriscaped-Front-Yard-with-Dry-Creek-Bed-and-Solar-Lighting.jpg 800w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Xeriscaped-Front-Yard-with-Dry-Creek-Bed-and-Solar-Lighting-300x169.jpg 300w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Xeriscaped-Front-Yard-with-Dry-Creek-Bed-and-Solar-Lighting-768x432.jpg 768w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Xeriscaped-Front-Yard-with-Dry-Creek-Bed-and-Solar-Lighting-480x270.jpg 480w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" /></figure></div>\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\">Photo Credit: <a href=\"https://www.canva.com/photos/MADBu2sIycs-xeriscaped-front-yard-with-dry-creek-bed-and-solar-lighting/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">remedypic</a> / Canva Pro / <a href=\"https://www.canva.com/policies/content-license-agreement/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">License</a></p>\n\n\n\n<p></p>\n\n\n\n<p>We’re not following the “save the best for the last” format, but xeriscaping is certainly among the best ideas for a drought-tolerant landscape. Its essential purpose is to use as little water as possible, helping you obtain a low-water and low-maintenance garden. Xeriscaping can help you reduce water bills, cut back on energy consumption, and eliminate chores such as mowing and weeding.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p>Additionally, it can attract beneficial insects and promote biodiversity. For a drought-tolerant landscape, xeriscaping is highly recommended. It can help you create a beautiful and eco-friendly landscape with minimal water consumption.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p>Xeriscaping can include:</p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>Drought-tolerant groundcovers</li>\n</ul>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>Succulents</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Retaining walls</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Rainwater recycling system</li>\n</ul>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Estimated cost:</strong> This depends on the size and type of project. For example, the cost of a groundcover ranges from <strong>$10 to $25</strong>. On average, homeowners spend between <strong>$5 and $20 per square foot</strong> on xeriscaping.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"why\">Why Choose a Drought-Tolerant Landscape</h2>\n\n\n\n<p>A drought-tolerant landscape does have financial benefits, but it also supports the local wildlife habitat. Native plants may serve as a valuable food source for many birds and insects, while a rain garden cleans the rainwater before it reaches lakes or rivers.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p>Here are more reasons why every Oklahoma homeowner should opt for a drought-tolerant landscape:</p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>Suitable for Oklahoma’s climate</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Reduce energy consumption</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Lower your water bill</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Minimal maintenance work</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Get rid of unwanted weeds or grass with hardscaping features</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Chance to replace existing, high-maintenance features with low-water ones&nbsp;</li>\n</ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"faq\">FAQ About Drought-Tolerant Landscaping</h2>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"schema-faq wp-block-yoast-faq-block\"><div class=\"schema-faq-section\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">Is there a difference between drought-tolerant and drought-resistant landscaping?&nbsp;</strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">In short, yes. A lot of homeowners think they’re the same concept, but their main difference can be spotted in each of the terms. Using plants as an example, drought-tolerant means they can withstand drought for a limited period only. If they go through months and months without any water, the plants could wither and die.<br><br>On the other hand, drought-resistant plants are ones that can go without water for long periods of time. Cacti are great examples of such plants, as we automatically picture them in dry, sunny areas.&nbsp;<br><br></p> </div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">What are Oklahoma’s drought conditions?</strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">Oklahoma lies in the South Central region of the United States, so it should come as no surprise that many parts of the state suffer from drought conditions. Areas northwest of Oklahoma City suffer more than the likes of Lincoln, Pittsburg, or McCurtain Counties.<br><br>To monitor the drought map and get weekly updates, you can check Oklahoma’s drought status <a target=\"_blank\" href=\"https://www.drought.gov/states/oklahoma\" rel=\"noopener\">here</a>.&nbsp;<br><br></p> </div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">How can you provide extra care for your drought-tolerant landscape?</strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">A low-maintenance, drought-tolerant landscape will still require the occasional upkeep. Nothing major, but just enough to keep all your features in tip-top shape.<br><br>Here are simple ways to care for your drought-tolerant yard:<br>• Yearly mulching<br>• Water your new plants until they are established<br>• Aerate your soil yearly<br>• Trim, prune, and weed when needed<br>• Test your soil every 3 to 5 years (pH, condition..)<br><br></p> </div> </div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"get\">Get a Drought-Tolerant Oklahoma Landscape With a Pro</h2>\n\n\n\n<p>A drought-tolerant landscape has several advantages. It helps you save time, reduce maintenance costs, and keep your area’s climate healthy. Transforming your landscape will result in a more sustainable, cost-effective, and valuable property.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p>There are many plant species that thrive in the local climate. Explore the best native plants for Oklahoma to freshen up your garden with long-lasting trees and beautiful wildflowers. If your turfgrass is beginning to look grim and patchy, check out the <a href=\"https://www.wikilawn.com/lawn-care/ok/best-grass-types-for-oklahoma/\">best grass types for Oklahoma</a> and enjoy barbecues on a lush, green lawn. </p>\n\n\n\n<p>Looking to spend the weekend with your family at the Oklahoma City Zoo? Hire a <a href=\"https://www.wikilawn.com/\">local lawn care pro</a> to trim the shrubs, mow the lawn, or plant drought-tolerant turfgrass such as Bermudagrass. We have trusted lawn care pros in <a href=\"https://www.wikilawn.com/lawn-care/ok/oklahoma-city/\">Oklahoma City</a>, <a href=\"https://www.wikilawn.com/lawn-care/ok/bixby/\">Bixby</a>, <a href=\"https://www.wikilawn.com/lawn-care/ok/okmulgee/\">Okmulgee</a>, and many other cities across the state.</p>\n\n\n\n<p>Main Photo Credit: <a href=\"https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Nichols_Hills_-_Oklahoma_City,_OK,_USA_%286910_Avondale_Dr%29_-_panoramio.jpg\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">MARELBU</a> / Wikimedia Commons / <a href=\"https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">CC BY 3.0</a></p>\n","title":"8 Drought-Tolerant Landscaping Ideas for Oklahoma","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.3888888888888888,"src":"/static/7c2c14c2eea10e2391df80d1b265f826/1789c/Nichols-Hills-Oklahoma-City-OK-USA.jpg","srcSet":"/static/7c2c14c2eea10e2391df80d1b265f826/107df/Nichols-Hills-Oklahoma-City-OK-USA.jpg 320w,\n/static/7c2c14c2eea10e2391df80d1b265f826/293e9/Nichols-Hills-Oklahoma-City-OK-USA.jpg 500w,\n/static/7c2c14c2eea10e2391df80d1b265f826/f2cbb/Nichols-Hills-Oklahoma-City-OK-USA.jpg 800w,\n/static/7c2c14c2eea10e2391df80d1b265f826/1789c/Nichols-Hills-Oklahoma-City-OK-USA.jpg 960w,\n/static/7c2c14c2eea10e2391df80d1b265f826/c26c2/Nichols-Hills-Oklahoma-City-OK-USA.jpg 1200w","srcWebp":"/static/7c2c14c2eea10e2391df80d1b265f826/1dd6e/Nichols-Hills-Oklahoma-City-OK-USA.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/7c2c14c2eea10e2391df80d1b265f826/67b76/Nichols-Hills-Oklahoma-City-OK-USA.webp 320w,\n/static/7c2c14c2eea10e2391df80d1b265f826/8df11/Nichols-Hills-Oklahoma-City-OK-USA.webp 500w,\n/static/7c2c14c2eea10e2391df80d1b265f826/98a65/Nichols-Hills-Oklahoma-City-OK-USA.webp 800w,\n/static/7c2c14c2eea10e2391df80d1b265f826/1dd6e/Nichols-Hills-Oklahoma-City-OK-USA.webp 960w,\n/static/7c2c14c2eea10e2391df80d1b265f826/3cc96/Nichols-Hills-Oklahoma-City-OK-USA.webp 1200w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"8 Drought-Tolerant Landscaping Ideas for Oklahoma","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":"Get started on a sustainable, low-water, and low-maintenance outdoor living space by exploring 8 drought-tolerant landscaping ideas for Oklahoma."}}},{"node":{"id":"c2be73f5-a5c8-50cf-b404-fa93b89f40da","slug":"xeriscaping-ideas-colorado","path":"/lawn-care/co/xeriscaping-ideas-colorado/","status":"publish","template":"","format":"standard","author":{"description":"Descendant of the Fulani tribe, Gettysburg-obsessed Marine Corps brat, and lover of all things writing and editing, Andréa Butler has penned articles for Sesi magazine and sites, such as LivingSocial, Talbot Digital, Xickle, and Rachel Ray. Andréa holds a B.A. in English from the University of North Carolina at Greensboro and an M.A. in magazine journalism from Kent State University.","name":"Andréa Butler","id":"dae2e109-3ba9-5073-a19a-e341e567190e","path":"/author/andrea-butler/","avatar_urls":{"wordpress_96":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/c671545b46efb40d2596d32a775f26a1?s=96&d=mm&r=g"}},"categories":[{"id":"be8bb3a1-b40c-57ba-87f7-ff69490271a0","name":"Colorado","count":8,"path":"/category/lawn-care/co/"},{"id":"205f24d4-c1e5-5728-bb28-8ba70eecbc7a","name":"Lawn Care","count":432,"path":"/category/lawn-care/"}],"date":"May 27th, 2023","excerpt":"<p>When you hear the words “thirst trap,” the first thing you think of is an outdoor space filled with high-maintenance turfgrass and water-guzzling non-native plants. Avoid these pitfalls on your own property by pivoting to a more sustainable, low-maintenance, drought-tolerant landscape. Here, we’ll help you get started with six xeriscaping ideas for your Colorado yard. [&hellip;]</p>\n","content":"\n<p>When you hear the words “thirst trap,” the first thing you think of is an outdoor space filled with high-maintenance turfgrass and water-guzzling non-native plants. Avoid these pitfalls on your own property by pivoting to a more sustainable, low-maintenance, drought-tolerant landscape. Here, we’ll help you get started with six xeriscaping ideas for your Colorado yard.</p>\n\n\n\n<p>In this article, we’ll cover:</p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"#what\">What is Xeriscaping?</a></li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"#invest\">Invest in Native Plants</a></li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"#turf\">Cut Back on Turfgrass</a></li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"#groundcovers\">Go All-In with Groundcovers</a></li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"#outdoor\">Extend Your Outdoor Living Space</a></li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"#rock\">Opt for a Rock Garden</a></li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"#water\">Save Water with Proper Irrigation</a></li>\n</ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"what\">But First, What is Xeriscaping?</h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Coined right here in the Buffalo Plains State by <a href=\"https://www.denverwater.org/residential/rebates-and-conservation-tips/remodel-your-yard/xeriscape-plans/xeriscape-principles\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Denver Water</a> back in 1981, “xeriscaping” is a fancy way of saying “dry landscaping.” Contrary to popular belief, though, a xeriscaped yard can be so much more than just rocks, sand, and cacti — there’s a wealth of drought-tolerant flowers, shrubs, trees, and grasses you can also use.</p>\n\n\n\n<p>Before converting your current landscape design into a sustainable xeriscape, familiarize yourself with the seven principles of xeriscaping:</p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>Implement low-water landscape planning and design.</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Improve soil as needed.</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Irrigate the landscape effectively.</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Designate plant zones.</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Protect plant roots with mulch.</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Install a turf alternative.</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Maintain your new xeriscape.</li>\n</ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"invest\">1. Invest in Native Plants</h2>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"800\" height=\"533\" src=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Blue-mist-penstemon.jpg\" alt=\"Blue mist penstemon\" class=\"wp-image-15974\" srcset=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Blue-mist-penstemon.jpg 800w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Blue-mist-penstemon-300x200.jpg 300w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Blue-mist-penstemon-768x512.jpg 768w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Blue-mist-penstemon-600x400.jpg 600w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Blue-mist-penstemon-480x320.jpg 480w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" /></figure></div>\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\">Photo Credit: <a href=\"https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Penstemon_virens_1216032.jpg\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Dave Powell, USDA FS, bugwood.org</a> / Wikimedia Commons / <a href=\"https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">CC BY 3.0</a></p>\n\n\n\n<p></p>\n\n\n\n<p>Not only do indigenous plants help control erosion, reduce pesticide usage, and provide food and shelter to wildlife and pollinators, but native species also come adapted to local soil and weather conditions, which contributes to their natural ability to conserve water, requiring less of it due to their deep roots.</p>\n\n\n\n<p>As Colorado is known to have a semi-arid climate, choosing to fill your front yard and backyard with water-wise greenery is the perfect way to sustain a low-maintenance, eco-friendly landscape without sacrificing curb appeal.</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Check out some of the top native plants for Colorado xeriscapes:</strong></p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>Snakeweed (<em>gutierrezia sarothrae)</em></li>\n\n\n\n<li>King’s crown cactus (<em>echinocereus triglochidiatus</em>)</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Blue mist penstemon (<em>penstemon virens</em>)</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Narcissus anemone (<em>anemone narcissiflora</em>)</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Rocky Mountain bee plant (<em>cleomella serrulata</em>)</li>\n</ul>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Advantages of native plants:</strong></p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>Use less water</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Noninvasive</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Require less fertilization</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Provides distinctly local beauty</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Restores biodiversity</li>\n</ul>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Other (non-native) drought-resistant plants include:</strong></p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>Russian sage (<em>perovskia atriplicifolia</em>)</li>\n\n\n\n<li>white dalmatian iris (<em>iris pallida</em>)</li>\n\n\n\n<li>red valerian (<em>centranthus ruber</em>)</li>\n\n\n\n<li>bluebeard (<em>caryopteris x clandonensis</em>)</li>\n\n\n\n<li>goblin blanket flower (<em>gaillardia x grandiflora</em>)</li>\n</ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"turf\">2. Cut Back on Turfgrass</h2>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"800\" height=\"535\" src=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Tiny-lawn.jpg\" alt=\"Tiny lawn\" class=\"wp-image-15975\" srcset=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Tiny-lawn.jpg 800w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Tiny-lawn-300x201.jpg 300w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Tiny-lawn-768x514.jpg 768w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Tiny-lawn-600x400.jpg 600w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Tiny-lawn-480x321.jpg 480w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" /></figure></div>\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\">Photo Credit: <a href=\"https://www.canva.com/photos/MABb1UQcJew-backyard-lawn-sprinkler/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">welcomia</a> / Canva Pro / <a href=\"https://www.canva.com/policies/content-license-agreement/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">License</a></p>\n\n\n\n<p></p>\n\n\n\n<p>Attached to the look and feel of the lawn you’ve worked so hard to perfect? No worries; you don’t have to eliminate it completely in order to embrace a revamped, xeriscaped front yard. Instead, shrink the size of your turfgrass allotment to reduce water needs and mowing time.</p>\n\n\n\n<p>In the empty space that remains, consider adding texture and variety with garden beds and mulched areas surrounding accent plants, ornamental grasses, or decorative statuary. Or, if you want to think bigger, go ahead and replace what remains of your traditional, high-maintenance, water-loving Kentucky bluegrass with a native selection like blue gramma or buffalograss.</p>\n\n\n\n<p>A few other examples of Colorado native grasses include:</p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>Western wheatgrass (<em>pascopyrum smithii</em>)</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Sand lovegrass (<em>eragrostis trichodes</em>)</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Prairie junegrass (<em>koeleria macrantha</em>)</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Big bluestem (<em>andropogon gerardii</em>)</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Arizona fescue (<em>festuca arizonica</em>)</li>\n</ul>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Advantages of cutting back on turfgrass:</strong></p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>creates low-water landscape</li>\n\n\n\n<li>smaller area to mow</li>\n\n\n\n<li>low-maintenance</li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https://www.watereducationcolorado.org/fresh-water-news/cash-for-grass-colorado-to-pay-for-turf-removal-boost-water-conservation/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Colorado will pay to remove turfgrass</a></li>\n</ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"groundcovers\">3. Go All-In with Groundcovers</h2>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"800\" height=\"600\" src=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Woolly-Thyme-in-bloom.jpg\" alt=\"Woolly Thyme in bloom\" class=\"wp-image-15976\" srcset=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Woolly-Thyme-in-bloom.jpg 800w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Woolly-Thyme-in-bloom-300x225.jpg 300w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Woolly-Thyme-in-bloom-768x576.jpg 768w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Woolly-Thyme-in-bloom-510x382.jpg 510w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Woolly-Thyme-in-bloom-480x360.jpg 480w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" /></figure></div>\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\">Photo Credit: <a href=\"https://www.flickr.com/photos/patrickstandish/5409331663\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Patrick Standish</a> / Flickr / <a href=\"https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">CC BY 2.0</a></p>\n\n\n\n<p></p>\n\n\n\n<p>Another sustainable turfgrass replacement, xeric groundcovers will transform your property from low-mow to no-mow. Drought-tolerant and easy to care for, these low-growing plant selections work especially well on hard-to-mow sloped land. Homeowners can employ a set it and forget it watering routine by installing a drip irrigation system that will send water to roots in small amounts.</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Try these choice groundcovers for your Colorado landscape:</strong></p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>Turkish veronica (<em>veronica liwanensis</em>)</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Wine cups (<em>callirhoe involucrata</em>)</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Blue chip creeping juniper (<em>juniperus horizonalis</em>)</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Prairie zinnia (<em>zinnia grandiflora</em>)</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Woolly thyme (<em>thymus pseudolanuginosus</em>)</li>\n</ul>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Advantages of groundcovers:</strong></p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>Conserve water</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Help prevent erosion</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Weed control</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Low-maintenance</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Grow well on slopes</li>\n</ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"outdoor\">4. Extend Your Outdoor Living Space</h2>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"800\" height=\"538\" src=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Outdoors-Kitchen-with-Built-In-gas-grill-on-a-deck.jpg\" alt=\"Outdoors Kitchen with Built-In gas grill on a deck\" class=\"wp-image-15983\" srcset=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Outdoors-Kitchen-with-Built-In-gas-grill-on-a-deck.jpg 800w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Outdoors-Kitchen-with-Built-In-gas-grill-on-a-deck-300x202.jpg 300w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Outdoors-Kitchen-with-Built-In-gas-grill-on-a-deck-768x516.jpg 768w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Outdoors-Kitchen-with-Built-In-gas-grill-on-a-deck-480x323.jpg 480w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" /></figure></div>\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\">Photo Credit: <a href=\"https://www.canva.com/photos/MAEEGUSP1Ck-outdoors-kitchen-with-built-in-gas-grill-on-a-deck/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">ivanastar</a> / Canva Pro / <a href=\"https://www.canva.com/policies/content-license-agreement/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">License</a></p>\n\n\n\n<p></p>\n\n\n\n<p>In The Centennial State, sunshine is plentiful, temperatures are milder, and overall, precipitation is occasional — making the environment optimal for living it up outdoors. But even when you can’t make a trip to kayak down the South Platte River in Denver, hike in Montrose’s Black Canyon National Park, or explore the Garden of the Gods, you can still take in Colorful Colorado’s unparalleled scenery from the comfort of your own outdoor oasis.</p>\n\n\n\n<p>Another water conservation method, hardscaping can transform your backyard into an entertainment mecca. To add to your existing patio, start with a simple DIY project like building a fire pit or laying a walkway. Suitable for a smaller outdoor space, fire pits add immediate ambiance by brightening things up and adding warmth on a chilly night. A brick paver walkway can also make your xeriscape pop with color and texture. Run it through the middle of your new landscape design, bordering it with succulents, trees, shrubs, and native perennials.</p>\n\n\n\n<p>Other hardscape ideas:</p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>outdoor kitchen</li>\n\n\n\n<li>stepping stones</li>\n\n\n\n<li>statuary</li>\n\n\n\n<li>pond water feature</li>\n\n\n\n<li>pergolas</li>\n</ul>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Advantages of hardscapes:</strong></p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>increased water savings</li>\n\n\n\n<li>improved property value</li>\n\n\n\n<li>low-maintenance</li>\n\n\n\n<li>reduces erosion</li>\n\n\n\n<li>designates different outdoor living “rooms”</li>\n</ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"rock\">5. Opt for a Rock Garden</h2>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"800\" height=\"600\" src=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Rock-garden-pebbles.jpg\" alt=\"Rock garden\" class=\"wp-image-15985\" srcset=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Rock-garden-pebbles.jpg 800w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Rock-garden-pebbles-300x225.jpg 300w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Rock-garden-pebbles-768x576.jpg 768w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Rock-garden-pebbles-510x382.jpg 510w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Rock-garden-pebbles-480x360.jpg 480w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" /></figure></div>\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\">Photo Credit: <a href=\"https://www.canva.com/photos/MADFZpRDPJg-rock-garden/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">LookTarn</a> / Canva Pro / <a href=\"https://www.canva.com/policies/content-license-agreement/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">License</a></p>\n\n\n\n<p></p>\n\n\n\n<p>While Colorado’s low precipitation levels make it easy to enjoy the outdoors uninterrupted, on the flip side, the lack of rain means homeowners must rely on supplemental water — 50% of potable water, in fact — to keep lawns lush and gardens in bloom. Switching from traditional grass and flower beds to xeriscape-approved rock gardens can vastly improve water savings.</p>\n\n\n\n<p>Well-suited for sloped land, rock gardens can also act as hardscape borders. When creating your rock garden, stick to the same type of rock throughout — native granite is a popular pick. Varying rock shape and size can help create contrast and visual interest. Rock gardens don’t have to include plants, but doing so will boost the aesthetic appeal even more. Make sure the soil is well-drained and opt for diverse flowers, shrubs, succulents and groundcovers.</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>A few recommended rock garden plants are:</strong></p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>carpet bugle (<em>ajuga reptans</em>)</li>\n\n\n\n<li>mountain alyssum (<em>alyssum montanum</em>)</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Serbian bellflower (<em>campanula poscharskyana</em>)</li>\n\n\n\n<li>purple ice plant (<em>delosperma cooperi</em>)</li>\n\n\n\n<li>candytuft (<em>iberis sempervirens</em>)</li>\n</ul>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Advantages of rock gardens:</strong></p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>low water needs</li>\n\n\n\n<li>boosts curb appeal</li>\n\n\n\n<li>low-maintenance</li>\n\n\n\n<li>withstands all weather conditions</li>\n\n\n\n<li>provides year-round interest</li>\n</ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"water\">6. Save Water with Proper Irrigation</h2>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"800\" height=\"600\" src=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Drip-irrigation.jpg\" alt=\"Drip irrigation\" class=\"wp-image-15987\" srcset=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Drip-irrigation.jpg 800w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Drip-irrigation-300x225.jpg 300w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Drip-irrigation-768x576.jpg 768w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Drip-irrigation-510x382.jpg 510w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Drip-irrigation-480x360.jpg 480w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" /></figure></div>\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\">Photo Credit: <a href=\"https://www.flickr.com/photos/50697352@N00/29914890608\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">F. D. Richards</a> / Flickr / <a href=\"https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/2.0/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">CC BY-SA 2.0</a></p>\n\n\n\n<p></p>\n\n\n\n<p>A staple of water-wise landscaping, drip irrigation provides hydration to plants a little at a time. More effective than sprinkler systems (according to the Colorado State University extension, sprinklers are 50% to 70% efficient, while <a href=\"https://extension.colostate.edu/disaster-web-sites/efficient-landscape-irrigation-during-drought-and-with-limited-water-availability-in-colorado/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">drip irrigation</a> is more than 90% efficient), drip irrigation works via a system of plastic tubes that gradually deliver small amounts of water to plants.</p>\n\n\n\n<p>Installation can be DIY, or to ensure everything is done properly, homeowners can hire a local landscaping pro to do the job. Get the most of this irrigation system by grouping plants according to their water needs.</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Advantages of drip irrigation:</strong></p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>conserves water</li>\n\n\n\n<li>reduces runoff/erosion/evaporation</li>\n\n\n\n<li>can be automated</li>\n\n\n\n<li>prevents water damage to structures/hardscapes because it stays in-ground</li>\n</ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">FAQ About Xeriscaping in Colorado</h2>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"schema-faq wp-block-yoast-faq-block\"><div class=\"schema-faq-section\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">What are the benefits of xeriscaping?</strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">Advantages of xeriscaping include:<br/>• Reduced water usage<br/>• Low-maintenance yard work<br/>• Prioritizes native plants<br/>• Decreases need for fertilization/pesticides<br/><br/></p> </div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">Is xeriscaping HOA-friendly?</strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">Yes! In fact, in 2021, Colorado passed House Bill 21-1229, which forbids homeowners’ associations from barring xeriscapes and artificial turfgrass, among other sustainable solutions.<br/><br/></p> </div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">When is the best time to xeriscape?</strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">In Colorado, the best time to xeriscape tends to be during the fall months. Experts reason this is because plants are dormant this time of year, giving them several months to establish deep roots in preparation for warmer weather and potential drought conditions come spring and summer. Another reason experts give? Autumn isn’t the busy season for landscaping and buying plants, meaning prices may be cheaper and landscapers may be more available for help.<br/><br/></p> </div> </div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Professional Colorado Landscape Maintenance</h2>\n\n\n\n<p>In the beginning, your newly xeriscaped yard may take a lot of effort — from removing turfgrass to replacing non-native plants in beds and borders with native ones to installing new hardscaping. If you thrive on outdoor work and can’t wait to get your hands dirty, a DIY xeriscape job may be the budget-friendly option for you.</p>\n\n\n\n<p>If, as part of your xeriscape plans you decide to maintain a small patch of grass for your kids and pets to play on, be sure it’s on flat land that is easy to irrigate and mow. Of course, you don’t have to mow the grass yourself, just use WikiLawn to locate and hire a <a href=\"https://www.wikilawn.com/\">lawn care expert near you</a> to do that for you. WikiLawn can connect you with pros in <a href=\"https://www.wikilawn.com/lawn-care/co/aurora/\">Aurora</a>, <a href=\"https://www.wikilawn.com/lawn-care/co/colorado-springs/\">Colorado Springs</a>, and many other cities across the state.</p>\n\n\n\n<p>Main Photo Credit: The Xeriscape Demonstration Garden in Denver, Colorado / <a href=\"https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Xeriscape_Demonstration_Garden.JPG\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Jeffrey Beall</a> / Wikimedia Commons / <a href=\"https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">CC BY 3.0</a></p>\n","title":"6 Xeriscaping Ideas for Colorado","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.5,"src":"/static/0c6c0bdc33ea37af1c4a70609a5e6a37/1789c/Xeriscape-Demonstration-Garden.jpg","srcSet":"/static/0c6c0bdc33ea37af1c4a70609a5e6a37/107df/Xeriscape-Demonstration-Garden.jpg 320w,\n/static/0c6c0bdc33ea37af1c4a70609a5e6a37/293e9/Xeriscape-Demonstration-Garden.jpg 500w,\n/static/0c6c0bdc33ea37af1c4a70609a5e6a37/f2cbb/Xeriscape-Demonstration-Garden.jpg 800w,\n/static/0c6c0bdc33ea37af1c4a70609a5e6a37/1789c/Xeriscape-Demonstration-Garden.jpg 960w,\n/static/0c6c0bdc33ea37af1c4a70609a5e6a37/c26c2/Xeriscape-Demonstration-Garden.jpg 1200w","srcWebp":"/static/0c6c0bdc33ea37af1c4a70609a5e6a37/1dd6e/Xeriscape-Demonstration-Garden.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/0c6c0bdc33ea37af1c4a70609a5e6a37/67b76/Xeriscape-Demonstration-Garden.webp 320w,\n/static/0c6c0bdc33ea37af1c4a70609a5e6a37/8df11/Xeriscape-Demonstration-Garden.webp 500w,\n/static/0c6c0bdc33ea37af1c4a70609a5e6a37/98a65/Xeriscape-Demonstration-Garden.webp 800w,\n/static/0c6c0bdc33ea37af1c4a70609a5e6a37/1dd6e/Xeriscape-Demonstration-Garden.webp 960w,\n/static/0c6c0bdc33ea37af1c4a70609a5e6a37/3cc96/Xeriscape-Demonstration-Garden.webp 1200w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"6 Xeriscaping Ideas for Colorado","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":"Conserve water and precious time by transforming your thirsty turf lawn into an eco-friendly oasis with these 6 xeriscaping ideas for Colorado."}}},{"node":{"id":"c632c9a0-9948-55fd-9e8b-92ddd1074a3e","slug":"best-native-plants-for-kansas","path":"/lawn-care/kansas/best-native-plants-for-kansas/","status":"publish","template":"","format":"standard","author":{"description":"LaShonda Tucker is a freelance writer, poet, and spoken word artist in Atlanta. She earned her masters from the University of Georgia and enjoys playing her violin.","name":"LaShonda Tucker","id":"f7fdb6d3-a89a-5295-963a-aac47afa7cee","path":"/author/lashonda-tucker/","avatar_urls":{"wordpress_96":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/ce61747b62dbfb82f56a8611f2835988?s=96&d=mm&r=g"}},"categories":[{"id":"daa9a0d5-f2d7-5874-a2a1-2ce417a82733","name":"Kansas","count":2,"path":"/category/lawn-care/kansas/"},{"id":"205f24d4-c1e5-5728-bb28-8ba70eecbc7a","name":"Lawn Care","count":432,"path":"/category/lawn-care/"}],"date":"May 25th, 2023","excerpt":"<p>From the educational exhibits and programs at Great Plains Nature Center to the beaches, hiking, and fishing available at Lake Shawnee, Kansas is home to many places to learn about and enjoy nature. You can continue to enjoy nature and celebrate it by creating a home environment filled with the best native plants for Kansas. [&hellip;]</p>\n","content":"\n<p>From the educational exhibits and programs at Great Plains Nature Center to the beaches, hiking, and fishing available at Lake Shawnee, Kansas is home to many places to learn about and enjoy nature. You can continue to enjoy nature and celebrate it by creating a home environment filled with the best native plants for Kansas. Keep reading to find out the 10 best native plants to create a beautiful and diverse home garden.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p>Native plants not only promote biodiversity and support the local ecosystem, but they can also reduce the amount of time you spend on upkeep. Because they have adapted to the local climate, native plants typically require fewer waterings, fertilizers, and other maintenance tasks than non-native plants.</p>\n\n\n\n<p>In this article:</p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li><strong><a href=\"#best\">10 Best Native Plants for Your Kansas Yard</a></strong></li>\n</ul>\n\n\n\n<ol>\n<li><strong><a href=\"#butterfly\">Butterfly Milkweed</a></strong></li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"#largeflower\">Largeflower Tickseed</a></strong></li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"#cardinal\">Cardinal Flower</a></strong></li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"#purple\">Purple Coneflower</a></strong></li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"#showy\">Showy Goldenrod</a></strong></li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"#little\">Little Bluestem</a></strong></li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"#new\">New England Aster</a></strong></li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"#fall\">Fall Phlox</a></strong></li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"#pink\">Pink Ladies</a></strong></li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"#spice\">Spicebush</a></strong></li>\n</ol>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li><strong><a href=\"#how\">How to Choose Native Plants for Your Kansas Landscape</a></strong></li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"#faq\">FAQ About Native Kansas Plants</a></strong></li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"#where\">Where to Find Native Plants in Kansas</a>&nbsp;</strong></li>\n</ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"best\">10 Best Native Plants for Your Kansas Yard</h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"butterfly\">1. Butterfly Milkweed (<em>Asclepias tuberosa)</em></h3>\n\n\n\n<p></p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"800\" height=\"600\" src=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Butterfly-Weed.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12763\" srcset=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Butterfly-Weed.jpg 800w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Butterfly-Weed-300x225.jpg 300w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Butterfly-Weed-768x576.jpg 768w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Butterfly-Weed-510x382.jpg 510w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Butterfly-Weed-480x360.jpg 480w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" /></figure></div>\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\">Photo Credit: <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https://commons.m.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Asclepias_tuberosa_tuberosa_(butterfly_weed)_(Highbanks_Park,_Lewis_Center,_Ohio,_USA)_4_(35788220756).jpg\" target=\"_blank\">James St. John</a> / Wikimedia Commons / <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0/deed.en\" target=\"_blank\">CC BY 2.0</a></p>\n\n\n\n<p>Butterfly milkweed, also known as butterfly weed, has bright orange flowers and wide green leaves that are an attractive addition to any native plant garden. However, all parts are <a href=\"https://www.poison.org/articles/milkweed-can-cause-serious-poisoning-204\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">poisonous</a> if ingested. Butterfly milkweed is also an eye and skin irritant. As lovely as these summer blossoming flowers are, take precautions if you plant this herb and you have children or pets.</p>\n\n\n\n<p>Butterfly milkweed embraces stability and does not transplant well once planted. It requires minimal maintenance and is pest and disease tolerant. Milkweeds are crucial for the survival of the monarch butterfly. Their population has reduced significantly in the past two decades. Plant this herb in borders or a butterfly garden and proudly support your local ecosystem.</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Native Regions: </strong>Most areas of Eastern and Central Kansas and limited areas of Eastern Kansas</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Plant type: </strong>Perennial herb</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>USDA Hardiness Zone: </strong>3 to 9</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Sun: </strong>Full sun</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Soil: </strong>Clay, loam, sand</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Duration: </strong>Perennial</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Fragrance: </strong>Vanilla</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Bloom time: </strong>May to September&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Water needs: </strong>Low</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Mature height: </strong>1 to 2 feet</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Potential hazards: </strong>Poisonous to animals and humans if ingested. Possible skin and eye irritants if touched.<strong>&nbsp;</strong></p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Maintenance</strong>: Low</p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"largeflower\">2. Largeflower Tickseed <em>(Coreopsis grandiflora)</em></h3>\n\n\n\n<p>This beautiful herb has no shortage of fluffy-looking, striking yellow flowers. The petals are layered on top of each other, although you can also find them arranged side by side like a saucer with a slight upward bend.</p>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https://www.gardenia.net/plant/coreopsis-grandiflora-early-sunrise\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Largeflower tickseed</a> is indeed a large flower, measuring two inches across. This easy-to-grow flowering herb attracts butterflies and bees. It prefers full sun and is especially ideal for the <strong>South Central</strong> area.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p>Once established, tickseed will survive off the area’s rainfall and may require watering once biweekly, at the most. This herb has also proven to grow well in the droughts of <strong>Northwestern</strong> Kansas. Plant it in cottage gardens or use it as an accent plant or container plant.</p>\n\n\n\n<p>To enjoy blossoms from late spring to late summer, remove the spent flower shoots.</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Native Regions: </strong>Limited counties in all regions</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Plant type: </strong>Herb</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>USDA Hardiness Zone: </strong>4 to 9</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Sun: </strong>Full sun</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Soil: </strong>Well-drained, sand, loam, clay</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Duration: </strong>Perennial, biennial</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Foliage: </strong>Semi-deciduous</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Fragrance:</strong> Sweet, spicey</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Bloom time: </strong>Summer and fall</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Water needs: </strong>Drought tolerant, 1 inch per week</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Mature height: </strong>1.5 to 2.5 feet</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Potential hazards:&nbsp; </strong>Some people are allergic to tickseed. This herb is susceptible to fungal diseases such as powdery mildew. Tickseed may attract aphids, aster leafhoppers, or coreopsis beetles.</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Maintenance needs: </strong>Low-maintenance, fertilize and deadhead to encourage robust blooms.</p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"cardinal\">3. Cardinal Flower (<em>Lobelia cardinalis</em>)&nbsp;</h3>\n\n\n\n<p></p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"800\" height=\"600\" src=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Cardinal_flower_Lobelia_cardinalis_027.jpg\" alt=\"a bright red flower\" class=\"wp-image-13726\" srcset=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Cardinal_flower_Lobelia_cardinalis_027.jpg 800w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Cardinal_flower_Lobelia_cardinalis_027-300x225.jpg 300w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Cardinal_flower_Lobelia_cardinalis_027-768x576.jpg 768w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Cardinal_flower_Lobelia_cardinalis_027-510x382.jpg 510w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Cardinal_flower_Lobelia_cardinalis_027-480x360.jpg 480w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" /></figure></div>\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\">Photo Credit: <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Cardinal_flower_Lobelia_cardinalis_027.JPG\" target=\"_blank\">linnaeus</a> / Wikimedia Commons / <a href=\"https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">CC BY 3.0</a></p>\n\n\n\n<p>Looking for a blast of fall color? This richly red flower blooms from midsummer to early fall. It enjoys moisture so much that it withstands brief flooding. If you are looking at low-maintenance landscaping ideas like rain gardens and xeriscaping, cardinal flower is a good choice.</p>\n\n\n\n<p>Be mindful of its <a href=\"https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/lobelia-cardinalis/#poison\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">toxic potential</a>. It’s harmful if large quantities are ingested.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p>Hummingbirds and butterflies are attracted to this flower. Cardinal thrives in full sun but expects afternoon shade to grow at its best. If your soil remains wet, your property is a good home for this flower.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p>Apply root mulch during the cold Kansas winters to protect cardinal flower’s root system and ensure sufficient room for the roots to grow.</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Native Regions: </strong>Select counties in all regions</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Plant type:</strong> Flower</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Hardiness zones:</strong> 3 to 9</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Sun:</strong> Full sun, partial shade, full shade</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Soil:</strong> Sand, loam, clay, limestone-based</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Duration: </strong>Perennial</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Fragrance: </strong>No floral scent</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Bloom time: </strong>Fall and Summer</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Water needs:</strong> Medium to high</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Mature height:</strong> 1 to 6 feet</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Potential hazards: </strong>Toxic if large amounts are ingested</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Maintenance: </strong>Low</p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"purple\">4. Purple Coneflower <em>(Echinacea purpurea</em>)</h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Purple coneflower is also called pink double delight. It has small-petaled reddish or purple flowers that look like little pom-poms that sit atop longer petals of the same color.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p>Purple coneflower is a favorite for homeowners wanting to see magnificent color during the cold Kansas winters. The pink double delight continues to bloom until frost.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p>Purple coneflower looks great in borders, beds, and wildflower gardens. It is deer resistant and tolerant of pests and diseases. This flower is very low maintenance and is even known to grow well when neglected.</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Native Regions: </strong>All&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Plant type: </strong>Flower</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>USDA Hardiness Zone: </strong>3 to 8</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Sun: </strong>Full sun, partial shade</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Soil: </strong>Sandy</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Duration: </strong>Perennial<strong>&nbsp;</strong></p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Fragrance: </strong>Light, sweet, honey-like</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Bloom time: </strong>April to September</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Water needs: </strong>Medium</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Mature height:</strong> 2 to 5 feet</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Potential Hazards:</strong> None; has medicinal properties</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Maintenance: </strong>Low</p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"showy\">5. Showy Goldenrod (<em>Solidago speciosa</em>)</h3>\n\n\n\n<p></p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"800\" height=\"658\" src=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Showy-Goldenrod.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-13201\" srcset=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Showy-Goldenrod.jpg 800w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Showy-Goldenrod-300x247.jpg 300w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Showy-Goldenrod-768x632.jpg 768w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Showy-Goldenrod-480x395.jpg 480w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" /></figure></div>\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\">Photo Credit:&nbsp;<a href=\"https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Showy_Goldenrod_as_found_on_the_SR.jpg\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Dseiver</a>&nbsp;/ Wikimedia Commons /&nbsp;<a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/deed.en\" target=\"_blank\">CC BY-SA 4.0</a></p>\n\n\n\n<p>These yellow flowers cluster near the top of upright stems that reach up to five feet high. <a href=\"https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/solidago-speciosa/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Showy goldenrod</a> catches the attention of butterflies, bees, and birds. This flower has a rating of medium flammability, so it is not the best plant to place near the barbeque grill or outdoor fire pit.</p>\n\n\n\n<p>Showy goldenrod thrives on properties with a lot of sun or partial shade. You will not have to water it much, as it is drought-tolerant once established. Add it to cottage gardens or borders. It’s not picky about soil choice, but moist soils may cause this showy wildflower to become aggressive.</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Native Regions: </strong>Select areas of Eastern and Central Kansas; not native to Western Kansas</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Plant type: </strong>Flower</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Hardiness zones: </strong>3 to 8</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Sun:</strong> Full sun, partial shade</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Soil: </strong>Rocky, clay</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Duration: </strong>Perennial</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Fragrance: </strong>Mild</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Bloom Time: </strong>July to September</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Water needs: </strong>Low to medium</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Mature height: </strong>1 to 5 feet</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Potential hazards: </strong>Medium flammability</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Maintenance: </strong>Low to Medium; May have to divide it every 2 years for size management.</p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"little\">6. Little Bluestem (<em>Schizachyrium scoparium</em>)</h3>\n\n\n\n<p></p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"800\" height=\"533\" src=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/800px-Schizachyrium_scoparium_4zz.jpg\" alt=\"A close up of little bluestem\" class=\"wp-image-14782\" srcset=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/800px-Schizachyrium_scoparium_4zz.jpg 800w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/800px-Schizachyrium_scoparium_4zz-300x200.jpg 300w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/800px-Schizachyrium_scoparium_4zz-768x512.jpg 768w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/800px-Schizachyrium_scoparium_4zz-600x400.jpg 600w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/800px-Schizachyrium_scoparium_4zz-480x320.jpg 480w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" /></figure></div>\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\">Photo Credit: <a href=\"https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Schizachyrium_scoparium_4zz.jpg\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">David J. Stang</a> / Wikimedia Commons / <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/deed.en\" target=\"_blank\">CC BY-SA 4.0</a></p>\n\n\n\n<p>Ready for a little winter color? Little bluestem is blue-green in the summer, yellow-orange in the fall, and copper in the winter.</p>\n\n\n\n<p>This plant is very adaptable and thrives in the wetter and drier areas of Kansas. It is humidity, heat, and drought-tolerant. Bluestem is easy to grow and will do well in a yard that gets a lot of sun.</p>\n\n\n\n<p>Because it is drought-resistant once established, little bluestem is ideal for rock gardens. Plant it on slopes to take advantage of its erosion control properties. Little bluestem is classified as a warm-season grass, so it is a great choice for a low-maintenance groundcover to replace turfgrass in lawns.</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Native Regions: </strong>All</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Plant type:</strong> Ornamental grass</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>USDA Hardiness Zone: </strong>3 to 9</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Sun: </strong>Full sun</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Soil: </strong>Dry to moist, well-drained soils</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Duration: </strong>Perennial</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Bloom time: </strong>August &#8211; February</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Water needs: </strong>Low</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Mature height: </strong>2 to 4 feet</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Maintenance: </strong>Low</p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"new\">7. New England Aster (<em>Symphyotrichum novae-angliae</em>)</h3>\n\n\n\n<p></p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"800\" height=\"627\" src=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/New-England-Aster-1.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-13682\" srcset=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/New-England-Aster-1.jpg 800w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/New-England-Aster-1-300x235.jpg 300w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/New-England-Aster-1-768x602.jpg 768w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/New-England-Aster-1-480x376.jpg 480w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" /></figure></div>\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\">Photo Credit: <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https://www.flickr.com/photos/usfwsmidwest/21411277970\" target=\"_blank\">USFWS Midwest Region</a> / Flickr / <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https://creativecommons.org/publicdomain/mark/1.0/\" target=\"_blank\">Public Domain</a></p>\n\n\n\n<p>New England aster is another plant that adds a little fall color. It blossoms for at least six weeks, starting in late summer. This flower looks like a daisy. It has pink petals emerging from a yellow center. Dark green leaves grow on stems that stand three to six feet tall.</p>\n\n\n\n<p>New England aster’s roots have been used for medicinal purposes, and it’s naturally found in moist soil or drying sandy soil.</p>\n\n\n\n<p>This daisy imposter attracts butterflies and bees. Plant it in butterfly gardens and cottage gardens and give it space for adequate air circulation.</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Native Regions: </strong>Eastern Kansas; not native to Central and Western Kansas</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Plant type:</strong> Flower</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>USDA Hardiness Zone: </strong>4 to 8</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Sun: </strong>Full sun to partial shade</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Soil: </strong>Clay, sandy, loamy</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Duration: </strong>Perennial</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Bloom time: </strong>Late summer &#8211; early fall</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Water needs: </strong>Medium</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Mature height: </strong>3 to 6 feet</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Potential hazards: </strong>Nontoxic</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Maintenance: </strong>Medium. If it grows tall, it may require staking or other support. Pinching back stems before midsummer controls plant height and promotes flower growth.</p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"fall\">8. Fall Phlox (<em>Phlox Paniculata</em>)&nbsp;</h3>\n\n\n\n<p></p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"800\" height=\"600\" src=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/372193348_617265a4e6_c-1.jpg\" alt=\"Pink colored flowers of fall phlox\" class=\"wp-image-14784\" srcset=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/372193348_617265a4e6_c-1.jpg 800w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/372193348_617265a4e6_c-1-300x225.jpg 300w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/372193348_617265a4e6_c-1-768x576.jpg 768w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/372193348_617265a4e6_c-1-510x382.jpg 510w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/372193348_617265a4e6_c-1-480x360.jpg 480w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" /></figure></div>\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\">Photo Credit: <a href=\"https://www.flickr.com/photos/dinesh_valke/372193348\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Dinesh Valke</a> / Flickr / <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/2.0/\" target=\"_blank\">CC BY-SA 2.0</a></p>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/phlox-paniculata/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Fall phlox</a> has small white flowers that clump together atop stems with dark green leaves. The flower opens to show a yellow center.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p>Like New England aster, fall phlox needs space for good airflow. Although this herb is a breathtaking display, she takes some extra work to maintain because of her high susceptibility to diseases and pests. For example, to manage her risk of powdery mildew, plant her so that she receives adequate air circulation. Do not water her from the top, and remove her from the garden in the winter.</p>\n\n\n\n<p>Despite all the fuss she causes, fall phlox is a great choice for pollinator gardens and in perennial borders. She also supports the ecosystem by attracting hummingbirds, butterflies, and other birds.</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Native Regions: </strong>South Central, Northwest, and limited areas of Eastern Kansas</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Plant type:</strong> Perennial herb</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>USDA Hardiness Zone:</strong> 4 to 8</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Sun:</strong> Full sun to partial shade</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Soil:</strong> Chalk, clay, loam</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Duration: </strong>Perennial</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Fragrance: </strong>Sweet scent</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Bloom time:</strong> June &#8211; October</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Water needs</strong>: Medium</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Mature height:</strong> 2 to 4 ft</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Potential hazards: </strong>No hazards</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Maintenance: </strong>Medium</p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"pink\">9. Pinkladies (Oenothera speciosa)</h3>\n\n\n\n<p></p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"800\" height=\"541\" src=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/pink-evening-primrose-g6b9ec0b4d_1280-1.jpg\" alt=\"Beautiful white color flowers of pinkladies\" class=\"wp-image-14786\" srcset=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/pink-evening-primrose-g6b9ec0b4d_1280-1.jpg 800w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/pink-evening-primrose-g6b9ec0b4d_1280-1-300x203.jpg 300w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/pink-evening-primrose-g6b9ec0b4d_1280-1-768x519.jpg 768w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/pink-evening-primrose-g6b9ec0b4d_1280-1-480x325.jpg 480w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" /></figure></div>\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\">Photo Credit: <a href=\"https://pixabay.com/de/photos/rosa-nachtkerze-oenothera-speciosa-2251915/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Pixabay</a></p>\n\n\n\n<p>Pinkladies, also called Mexican primrose, have four large white petals. You may also see her boasting pink petals. In either case, she has a yellow center and white stigmas. The stems are erect, and this showy herb beckons hummingbirds, bees, and hawk moths to pollinate the petals.</p>\n\n\n\n<p>Although she requires full sun, she tolerates a variety of soils. If you have a lot of shade and poor soil, pink ladies will understandably adapt.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p>She works well in coastal gardens and wildflower gardens. Because this herb tolerates drought, she is a good choice for rock gardens. Mexican primrose can get beside herself and become invasive. As a result, she is earmarked as an excellent option for groundcover.</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Native Regions: </strong>Southeast and most of Eastern and Central Kansas; limited areas of Northwest Kansas</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Plant type: </strong>Herb</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>USDA Hardiness Zone: </strong>3 to 9</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Sun: </strong>Full sun</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Soil: </strong>Well-drained sand, loam, clay, or rocky soil</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Duration: </strong>Perennial</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Foliage:</strong> Semi-evergreen</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Fragrance:</strong> Sweet</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Bloom time: </strong>February &#8211; October</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Water needs: </strong>Low-Medium, Drought-resistant</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Mature height: </strong>1 to 2 feet</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Potential hazards:</strong> None known</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Maintenance: </strong>Plant in a confined space to prevent overgrowth. Prune or mow in late summer or early fall.</p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"spice\">10. Spicebush (<em>Lindera benzoin</em>)</h3>\n\n\n\n<p></p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"800\" height=\"600\" src=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/40977811455_49680606f2_c-1.jpg\" alt=\"A close up of a beautiful spicebush plant\" class=\"wp-image-14790\" srcset=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/40977811455_49680606f2_c-1.jpg 800w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/40977811455_49680606f2_c-1-300x225.jpg 300w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/40977811455_49680606f2_c-1-768x576.jpg 768w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/40977811455_49680606f2_c-1-510x382.jpg 510w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/40977811455_49680606f2_c-1-480x360.jpg 480w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" /></figure></div>\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\">Photo Credit: <a href=\"https://www.flickr.com/photos/treegrow/40977811455\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Katja Schluz</a> / Flickr / <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0/\" target=\"_blank\">CC BY 2.0</a></p>\n\n\n\n<p>If you’re looking for a tall shrub, look no further. Spicebush grows up to 12 feet tall. She is known for her small yellow flowers that sprout in early to mid-spring and red berries that follow. The ripe berries attract small mammals and birds in the fall. The flowers are prey to pollinators and butterflies. The twigs and leaves have been used for <a href=\"https://www.kswildflower.org/tree_details.php?treeID=50\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">medicinal purposes</a> and teas, and the fruit has been used as a spice.</p>\n\n\n\n<p>Woodland gardens and rain gardens provide a wonderful spot for spicebush to showcase her fall color.</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Native Regions: </strong>Select areas of Southeast Kansas; not native in other areas</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Plant Type:</strong> Shrub</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>USDA Hardiness Zone: </strong>4-9</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Sun:</strong> Full sun to partial shade</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Soil:</strong> Moist but well-drained clay, loam, or sandy soils</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Duration:</strong> Deciduous</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Fragrance:</strong> Allspice</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Bloom Time/Season of Interest:</strong> Spring and autumn</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Water Needs:</strong> Moderate to high</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Mature Height:</strong> 6-12 feet</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Potential Hazards:</strong> None; all parts of the plant aside from the roots and stems are edible and female plants have edible berries</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Maintenance Needs:</strong> Low</p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"how\">How to Choose Native Plants for Your Kansas Yard</h2>\n\n\n\n<p>You’ll want plants with the necessary hardiness to survive the hot Kansas summers, cold winters, multiple soil types, and varying rainfall levels. Choose plants that are most likely to thrive in your area of the state. Plants not native to your area may still grow well, but it may take more maintenance to keep them alive and thriving.</p>\n\n\n\n<p>Some other things you can do to choose the best native plants are:</p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>Choose plants in your region’s USDA hardiness zone. These zones identify plants that will survive the area’s lowest average temperatures. Your zone should fall somewhere within 5a to 7b, which are the zones for the state of Kansas.&nbsp;</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Select plants that fit well with your yard’s characteristics. Is your yard sunny or shady? Is your soil well-drained or does it tend to hold on to moisture? Knowing these things can guide you to plants that are better suited for your home’s conditions.</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Pick plants that compliment your lifestyle. If you don’t have a lot of time for maintenance, plants that require little to remain healthy are the best option.</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Choose plants that work well with your family composition. You can opt for plants that have safety precautions if you have pets or small children. However, be mindful that you may want to plant them behind a fence or make sure you don’t leave small children or pets unattended when they’re outside.</li>\n</ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Research can be your best friend. Gather all the information necessary to make sure your vegetation is a practical fit for your yard’s conditions, your maintenance preferences, and your family composition.</p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"faq\">FAQ About Native Kansas Plants</h2>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"schema-faq wp-block-yoast-faq-block\"><div class=\"schema-faq-section\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">What are the advantages of using native plants?</strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">Here are some benefits of using native plants:<br/>• Native plants are adapted to the Kansas climate. They will still require some maintenance to be healthy, but they require less watering, fertilizing, and other tasks that may be necessary to keep non-native plants thriving. <br/>• Native plants are adapted to local diseases and pests. These plants require fewer, if any, chemical treatments, like pesticides and fungicides, to manage infestations and insect problems.<br/>• Because fewer pesticides, fertilizer, and other toxic substances are needed on native plants, fewer chemicals run off into the water supply. <br/>• Native plants support the local ecosystem by providing food and habitat to local pollinators, insects, and wildlife.<br/><br/></p> </div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">What are some plants native to Northeast Kansas?</strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">• Blue lobelia<em> (Lobelia siphilitica)</em><br/>• Missouri evening primrose<em> (Oenothera macrocarpa)</em><br/>• Rose verbena <em>(Glandularia canadensis)</em><br/>• Smooth aster <em>(Symphyotrichum laeve)</em><br/>• Pussytoes (Antennaria parlinii)<br/>• Virginia bluebells (Mertensia virginica)<br/>• Boneset (Eupatorium perfoliatum)<br/><br/></p> </div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">What are some plants native to Southeast Kansas?</strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">• Eastern blue star <em>(Amsonia tabernaemontana)</em><br/>• Purple coneflower <em>(Echinacea purpurea)</em><br/>• Beebalm <em>(Monarda bradburiana)</em><br/>• Royal catchfly <em>(Silene regia)</em><br/><br/></p> </div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">What are some plants native to South Central Kansas?</strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">• Trumpet honeysuckle <em>(Lonicera sempervirens)</em><br/>• Maiden grass <em>(Miscanthus sinensis)</em><br/>• Wintercreeper euonymus <em>(Euonymus fortunei var. coloratus)</em><br/>• Purple beautyberry <em>(Callicarpa dichotoma)</em><br/>• Chinese wisteria<em> (Wisteria sinensis)</em><br/>• Shrub rose <em>(Rosa spp.)</em><br/><br/></p> </div> </div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"where\">Where to Find Native Plants in Kansas</h2>\n\n\n\n<p>You probably already know you can find native plants at The Wichita Gardens. But if you want native plants to start your own garden, the <a href=\"https://www.kansasnativeplantsociety.org\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Kansas Native Plant Society</a> has information on native plant sales, nurseries, and more.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p>You now have the resources to create a home environment that provides habitats and food sources for local pollinators and insects. Let’s get you over to the Kansas City Zoo to see wildlife that you won’t see, and probably don’t want to see, visiting your property. (The zoo is for little<em> and </em>big kids, which includes you.) Hand over your outdoor mowing, edging, and trimming chores to a local <a href=\"https://www.wikilawn.com\">lawn care pro</a> so you can do something else.</p>\n\n\n\n<p>Main Image Credit: Purple Coneflower / <a href=\"https://www.flickr.com/photos/jsjgeology/38566472155\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">James St. John</a> / Flickr / <a href=\"https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">CC BY 2.0</a></p>\n","title":"10 Best Native Plants for Kansas","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.5037593984962405,"src":"/static/d92a769bc1490ff07e6f5d68f7f538ff/1789c/38566472155_a9461e5865_k-1.jpg","srcSet":"/static/d92a769bc1490ff07e6f5d68f7f538ff/107df/38566472155_a9461e5865_k-1.jpg 320w,\n/static/d92a769bc1490ff07e6f5d68f7f538ff/293e9/38566472155_a9461e5865_k-1.jpg 500w,\n/static/d92a769bc1490ff07e6f5d68f7f538ff/f2cbb/38566472155_a9461e5865_k-1.jpg 800w,\n/static/d92a769bc1490ff07e6f5d68f7f538ff/1789c/38566472155_a9461e5865_k-1.jpg 960w,\n/static/d92a769bc1490ff07e6f5d68f7f538ff/c26c2/38566472155_a9461e5865_k-1.jpg 1200w","srcWebp":"/static/d92a769bc1490ff07e6f5d68f7f538ff/1dd6e/38566472155_a9461e5865_k-1.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/d92a769bc1490ff07e6f5d68f7f538ff/67b76/38566472155_a9461e5865_k-1.webp 320w,\n/static/d92a769bc1490ff07e6f5d68f7f538ff/8df11/38566472155_a9461e5865_k-1.webp 500w,\n/static/d92a769bc1490ff07e6f5d68f7f538ff/98a65/38566472155_a9461e5865_k-1.webp 800w,\n/static/d92a769bc1490ff07e6f5d68f7f538ff/1dd6e/38566472155_a9461e5865_k-1.webp 960w,\n/static/d92a769bc1490ff07e6f5d68f7f538ff/3cc96/38566472155_a9461e5865_k-1.webp 1200w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"10 Best Native Plants for Kansas | Wikilawn","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":"This article highlights the best native plants for Kansas that provide diversity for your home landscape and support the local ecosystem."}}},{"node":{"id":"f3cccc4f-a21a-52dd-b285-4d2ff468d47b","slug":"milkweeds-native-to-virginia","path":"/lawn-care/virginia/milkweeds-native-to-virginia/","status":"publish","template":"","format":"standard","author":{"description":"Originally from the Washington, D.C., area, Annie Parnell is a freelance writer and audio producer based in Richmond, Virginia. She is passionate about gardening, outdoor recreation, sustainability, and all things music and pop culture.","name":"Annie Parnell","id":"7cb93ddd-c7d5-5808-a0dc-7cdcee97d872","path":"/author/annie-parnell/","avatar_urls":{"wordpress_96":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/010c9ca3170b2bd8d3c790bd98eee145?s=96&d=mm&r=g"}},"categories":[{"id":"205f24d4-c1e5-5728-bb28-8ba70eecbc7a","name":"Lawn Care","count":432,"path":"/category/lawn-care/"},{"id":"ddd20ffd-f767-55d6-8823-27520167ef7e","name":"Virginia","count":20,"path":"/category/lawn-care/virginia/"}],"date":"May 25th, 2023","excerpt":"<p>Virginia boasts several native species of milkweed, a humble herbaceous wildflower that attracts pollinators and acts as a vital food source for native pollinators and beloved endangered species, like bees and monarch butterflies. It’s a great idea to plant milkweed for any garden in the Old Dominion – but how can you choose which milkweed [&hellip;]</p>\n","content":"\n<p>Virginia boasts several native species of milkweed, a humble herbaceous wildflower that attracts pollinators and acts as a vital food source for native pollinators and beloved endangered species, like bees and monarch butterflies. It’s a great idea to plant milkweed for any garden in the Old Dominion – but how can you choose which milkweed to plant in your yard?&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p><br>Some milkweed varieties may not be available at your local garden center, while others just aren’t suited to Virginia’s tricky transition zone climate. Check out these eight milkweed species native to Virginia to make the perfect choice for your lawn.<br></p>\n\n\n\n<p>In this article:</p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"#eight\">8 Milkweeds Native to Virginia</a>\n<ol>\n<li><a href=\"#common\">Common Milkweed</a></li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"#swamp\">Swamp Milkweed</a></li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"#butterfly\">Butterfly Milkweed</a></li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"#poke\">Poke Milkweed</a></li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"#whorled\">Whorled Milkweed</a></li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"#green\">Green Comet Milkweed</a></li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"#white\">White Milkweed</a></li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"#purple\">Purple Milkweed</a></li>\n</ol>\n</li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"#choose\">How to Choose Milkweeds for Your Virginia Landscape</a></li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"#faq\">FAQ About Milkweeds in Virginia</a></li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"#find\">Where to Find Milkweeds in Virginia</a></li>\n</ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"eight\">8 Milkweeds Native to Virginia</h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"common\">1. Common Milkweed (<em>Asclepias syriaca</em>)</h3>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"800\" height=\"600\" src=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Common-Milkweed.jpg\" alt=\"Common Milkweed\" class=\"wp-image-12594\" srcset=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Common-Milkweed.jpg 800w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Common-Milkweed-300x225.jpg 300w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Common-Milkweed-768x576.jpg 768w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Common-Milkweed-510x382.jpg 510w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Common-Milkweed-480x360.jpg 480w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" /></figure></div>\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\">Photo Credit: <a href=\"https://www.flickr.com/photos/usfwsmtnprairie/9569973253\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">USFWS Mountain-Prairie</a> / Flickr / <a href=\"https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">CC BY 2.0</a></p>\n\n\n\n<p></p>\n\n\n\n<p>Common milkweed is a classic choice for the garden with native regions across North America, including the eastern and central United States and southern Canada. This versatility makes it a great option for Virginia’s hot summers and cold winters. It’s the favorite host plant of the monarch butterfly, and produces pinkish-white flowers with an attractive vanilla scent.</p>\n\n\n\n<p>Common milkweed spreads rapidly through rhizomes, so make sure you’re ready for it to make itself at home in your garden. It can grow to about 5 feet tall, and in addition to monarchs it’ll attract bumblebees and other insects to its nectar-laden flowers.</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Growth habit: </strong>Herb</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>USDA hardiness zone: </strong>3 to 9</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Mature size: </strong>3 to 5 ft</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Duration: </strong>Perennial</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Bloom time: </strong>Jun-Aug</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Sunlight needs: </strong>Full sun</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Soil preferences: </strong>Rocky, clay, well-drained loamy, and sandy soils</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Water needs: </strong>&nbsp;Medium</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Potential hazards: </strong>Toxic to humans and animals</p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"swamp\">2. Swamp Milkweed (<em>Asclepias incarnata</em>)</h3>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"799\" height=\"533\" src=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Swamp-Milkweed.jpg\" alt=\"Pink Color Flower with the green blurry background\" class=\"wp-image-13303\" srcset=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Swamp-Milkweed.jpg 799w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Swamp-Milkweed-300x200.jpg 300w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Swamp-Milkweed-768x512.jpg 768w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Swamp-Milkweed-600x400.jpg 600w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Swamp-Milkweed-480x320.jpg 480w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 799px) 100vw, 799px\" /></figure></div>\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\">Photo Credit: <a href=\"https://www.flickr.com/photos/158105449@N02/51803934774\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Lydia Fravel</a> / Flickr / <a href=\"https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">CC BY 2.0</a></p>\n\n\n\n<p></p>\n\n\n\n<p>Swamp milkweed is a common milkweed native to Virginia, where it thrives in wet soils such as the Washington, D.C. area and the Great Dismal Swamp. It’s moderately tolerant of salt spray, and produces clusters of dusty pink flowers that bloom from late summer to mid-fall, providing visual interest and an important source of food and shelter. Unlike other milkweeds, it can tolerate partially shady conditions.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p>Swamp milkweed is another preferred choice for monarch butterflies, and it may also attract aphids. It thrives when planted near riverbanks, ponds, and streams in the home landscape. Swamp milkweed is a great option for a rain garden, or a wet yard with the red clay soil common in Virginia’s Piedmont region.</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Growth habit: </strong>Herb</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>USDA hardiness zone: </strong>2 to 6</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Mature size: </strong>approx. 5 ft tall</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Duration: </strong>Perennial</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Bloom time: </strong>Jun-Oct</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Sunlight needs: </strong>Full sun to partial shade</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Soil preferences: </strong>Rich, wet, mucky clay soils</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Water needs: </strong>&nbsp;High</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Potential hazards: </strong>Toxic to humans and animals</p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"butterfly\">3. Butterfly Weed (<em>Asclepias tuberosa</em>)</h3>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"800\" height=\"536\" src=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Butterfly-Weed.jpg\" alt=\"Orange Color Butterfly Weed Flowers\" class=\"wp-image-13302\" srcset=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Butterfly-Weed.jpg 800w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Butterfly-Weed-300x201.jpg 300w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Butterfly-Weed-768x515.jpg 768w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Butterfly-Weed-480x322.jpg 480w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" /></figure></div>\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\">Photo Credit: <a href=\"https://www.flickr.com/photos/wackybadger/4553672218\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Joshua Mayer</a> / Flickr / <a href=\"https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/2.0/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">CC BY-SA 2.0</a></p>\n\n\n\n<p></p>\n\n\n\n<p>True to its name, butterfly weed is a major attraction for many different butterfly species, including monarchs, gray hairstreaks, and queen butterflies. The bright orange blooms of this compact milkweed make a lovely addition to Virginia lawns, and it’s commonly grown from seed for home use. Unlike other milkweeds, butterfly weed doesn’t produce the trademark milky sap.</p>\n\n\n\n<p>Butterfly weed is also known as pleurisy root for its historic medicinal uses, though be cautious, as it’s toxic if ingested in large quantities. Native from New England to Florida and westward to Arizona, it’s an exceedingly drought-tolerant milkweed choice, and will also attract hummingbirds, though you may face problems with aphids.</p>\n\n\n\n<p><br><strong>Growth habit: </strong>Herb</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>USDA hardiness zone: </strong>3 to 9</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Mature size: </strong>1 to 2 ft</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Duration: </strong>Perennial</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Bloom time: </strong>May-September</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Sunlight needs: </strong>Full sun</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Soil preferences: </strong>Dry to moist, well-drained sandy soils</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Water needs: </strong>Low</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Potential hazards: </strong>Toxic if ingested in large quantities</p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"poke\">4. Poke Milkweed (<em>Asclepias exaltata</em>)</h3>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"800\" height=\"600\" src=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Poke-Milkweed.jpg\" alt=\"Poke Milkweed\" class=\"wp-image-15856\" srcset=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Poke-Milkweed.jpg 800w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Poke-Milkweed-300x225.jpg 300w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Poke-Milkweed-768x576.jpg 768w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Poke-Milkweed-510x382.jpg 510w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Poke-Milkweed-480x360.jpg 480w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" /></figure></div>\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\">Photo Credit: <a href=\"https://www.flickr.com/photos/douglas_mcgrady/36063887466\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Doug McGrady</a> / Flickr / <a href=\"https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">CC BY 2.0</a></p>\n\n\n\n<p></p>\n\n\n\n<p>Poke milkweed, also known as tall milkweed, is a widely-distributed milkweed native to Virginia. Poke milkweed is naturally found on the edges of forests, where it thrives in rich organic soils. It’s been known to hybridize with common milkweed when the two are in proximity, as these plants closely resemble each other.</p>\n\n\n\n<p><br>Poke milkweed can grow up to six feet in height, and like swamp milkweed it will also tolerate shade and damp conditions, though it doesn’t require its soil to be waterlogged. When in bloom, poke milkweed has a striking cinnamon-vanilla fragrance.</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Growth habit: </strong>Herb</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>USDA hardiness zone: </strong>3 to 7</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Mature size: </strong>2 to 6 ft</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Duration: </strong>Perennial</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Bloom time: </strong>May-August</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Sunlight needs: </strong>Full sun to partial shade</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Soil preferences: </strong>Rich organic content and moderate moisture</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Water needs: </strong>Medium</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Potential hazards: </strong>Toxic in large quantities</p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"whorled\">5. Whorled Milkweed (<em>Asclepias verticillata</em>)</h3>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"800\" height=\"600\" src=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Whorled-Milkweed-Asclepias-verticillata.jpg\" alt=\"Whorled Milkweed (Asclepias verticillata)\" class=\"wp-image-15878\" srcset=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Whorled-Milkweed-Asclepias-verticillata.jpg 800w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Whorled-Milkweed-Asclepias-verticillata-300x225.jpg 300w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Whorled-Milkweed-Asclepias-verticillata-768x576.jpg 768w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Whorled-Milkweed-Asclepias-verticillata-510x382.jpg 510w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Whorled-Milkweed-Asclepias-verticillata-480x360.jpg 480w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" /></figure></div>\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\">Photo Credit: <a href=\"https://www.flickr.com/photos/douglas_mcgrady/43097969004/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Doug McGrady</a> / Flickr / <a href=\"https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">CC BY 2.0</a></p>\n\n\n\n<p></p>\n\n\n\n<p>Whorled milkweed is slightly rarer than other types of Virginia milkweed, but it still makes for a great native milkweed garden addition. Its name comes from the “whorled” or spiraling nature of its leaves, and it’s also known as horsetail milkweed for its distinctive flower stalks. Whorled milkweed is naturally found in woodland habitats, and it can tolerate drought, partial shade, and rocky or clay soils.</p>\n\n\n\n<p>Whorled milkweed is one of the more toxic milkweed varieties to humans and animals, and it should not be ingested if grown in the garden. It creates greenish-white flowers and is of particular value to monarch butterflies and honey bee species.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Growth habit: </strong>Herb</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>USDA hardiness zone: </strong>3 to 9</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Mature size: </strong>1 to 3 ft tall</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Duration: </strong>Perennial</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Bloom time: </strong>May-September</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Sunlight needs: </strong>Full sun to partial shade</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Soil preferences: </strong>Sandy, rocky, clay</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Water needs: </strong>&nbsp;Low</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Potential hazards: </strong>Toxic if ingested</p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"green\">6. Green Comet Milkweed (<em>Asclepias viridiflora</em>)</h3>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"800\" height=\"600\" src=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Green-Comet-Milkweed.jpg\" alt=\"Green Comet Milkweed\" class=\"wp-image-15855\" srcset=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Green-Comet-Milkweed.jpg 800w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Green-Comet-Milkweed-300x225.jpg 300w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Green-Comet-Milkweed-768x576.jpg 768w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Green-Comet-Milkweed-510x382.jpg 510w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Green-Comet-Milkweed-480x360.jpg 480w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" /></figure></div>\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\">Photo Credit: <a href=\"https://www.flickr.com/photos/plant_diversity/3726509831\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Matt Lavin</a> / Flickr / <a href=\"https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/2.0/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">CC BY-SA 2.0</a></p>\n\n\n\n<p></p>\n\n\n\n<p>With its thick vertical stem and yellow-green and pink blooms, green comet milkweed provides a unique appearance and a pollinator habitat in the garden. It’s particularly valuable to native bee species, as well as monarch butterflies, whose caterpillars feed on the leaves.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p>This drought-tolerant milkweed is very adaptable to different soil and light conditions, and will produce longer, thinner leaves in dry weather and rounder ones in moist climates.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Growth habit: </strong>Herb</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>USDA hardiness zone: </strong>3 to 9</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Mature size: </strong>Up to 2ft tall</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Duration: </strong>Perennial</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Bloom time: </strong>June-September</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Sunlight needs: </strong>Full sun to partial shade</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Soil preferences: </strong>Sandy, loamy, rocky</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Water needs: </strong>&nbsp;Low</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Potential hazards: </strong>Toxic if ingested</p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"white\">7. White Milkweed (<em>Asclepias variegata</em>)</h3>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"800\" height=\"739\" src=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/White-Redring-Milkweed.jpg\" alt=\"Beetle on white (redring) milkweed\" class=\"wp-image-15863\" srcset=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/White-Redring-Milkweed.jpg 800w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/White-Redring-Milkweed-300x277.jpg 300w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/White-Redring-Milkweed-768x709.jpg 768w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/White-Redring-Milkweed-480x443.jpg 480w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" /></figure></div>\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\">Photo Credit: <a href=\"https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Scarab_beetle_on_Redring_Milkweed.jpg\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">James Leon Young</a> / Wikimedia Commons / <a href=\"https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">CC BY-SA 4.0</a></p>\n\n\n\n<p></p>\n\n\n\n<p>White milkweed is a rarer find in Virginia, but it’s still a native plant that makes a great addition to any butterfly garden or pollinator garden. Also known as redwing milkweed or redring milkweed, this is another native to woodland habitats, and it’s highly resistant to damage from grazing deer.</p>\n\n\n\n<p>White milkweed produces white, popcorn-like flowers with purple centers. It looks particularly breathtaking when planted in clumps or masses, which will show off its appearance and maximize pollinator benefit.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Growth habit: </strong>Herb</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>USDA hardiness zone: </strong>3 to 9</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Mature size: </strong>1 to 4 ft</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Duration: </strong>Perennial</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Bloom time: </strong>May-July</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Sunlight needs: </strong>Full sun to partial shade</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Soil preferences: </strong>Dry, sandy to rocky</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Water needs: </strong>Low</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Potential hazards: </strong>Toxic if ingested</p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"purple\">8. Purple Milkweed (<em>Asclepias purpurascens</em>)</h3>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"800\" height=\"534\" src=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Purple-milkweed-Asclepias-purpurascens.jpg\" alt=\"Purple milkweed\" class=\"wp-image-15769\" srcset=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Purple-milkweed-Asclepias-purpurascens.jpg 800w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Purple-milkweed-Asclepias-purpurascens-300x200.jpg 300w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Purple-milkweed-Asclepias-purpurascens-768x513.jpg 768w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Purple-milkweed-Asclepias-purpurascens-600x400.jpg 600w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Purple-milkweed-Asclepias-purpurascens-480x320.jpg 480w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" /></figure></div>\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\">Photo Credit: <a href=\"https://www.flickr.com/photos/52450054@N04/50273637056\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Judy Gallagher</a> / Flickr / <a href=\"https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">CC BY 2.0</a></p>\n\n\n\n<p></p>\n\n\n\n<p>Purple milkweed has very distinctive pinkish-purple flowers, which are excellent at attracting long-tongued bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds. It’s naturally found in several different habitats, including shrub thickets, shorelines, and woodlands, making it an adaptable and attractive garden addition.</p>\n\n\n\n<p>Purple milkweed prefers a higher nutrient content than some other milkweed types in its soil. While it’s widely distributed across the US, its population is in decline in some areas, so planting is a good opportunity to aid in conservation efforts!</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Growth habit: </strong>Herb</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>USDA hardiness zone: </strong>3 to 8</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Mature size: </strong>2 to 3 ft tall</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Duration: </strong>Perennial</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Bloom time: </strong>May-July</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Sunlight needs: </strong>Full sun</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Soil preferences: </strong>Sandy soils, high nutrient content</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Water needs: </strong>&nbsp;Low</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Potential hazards: </strong>Toxic if ingested</p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"choose\"><br>How to Choose Milkweeds for Your Virginia Landscape</h2>\n\n\n\n<p>With all the options available for native Virginia milkweeds, it can seem difficult to select the perfect fit for your lawn. To make sure you’re making the right choice, consider the climate around your Virginia home. Are you looking for a salt-tolerant milkweed that will bask in the beachy conditions of the Tidewater, or one that thrives in the loamy soils of the Blue Ridge Mountains?</p>\n\n\n\n<p>These factors can help you pick the perfect milkweed plants for you:</p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Sunlight. </strong>Some milkweeds can thrive in partial shade, while others need full sun to bloom.</li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Soil quality.</strong> Many milkweed types are hardy plants that thrive in poor and rocky soils, but some require more nutrients to thrive. Consider getting a <a href=\"https://www.soiltest.vt.edu/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">soil test</a> before you shop.</li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Children and pets.</strong> Most milkweed types are poisonous to humans and animals in some capacity, but some are highly toxic if ingested. Keep this in mind when selecting milkweed to plant if you have young children or pets!</li>\n</ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"faq\">FAQ About Milkweeds in Virginia</h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">When should I plant milkweed in Virginia?</h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Plant milkweed seeds in your garden in the fall in Virginia, as they have adapted to overwinter and thrive in cool temperatures.</p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Can I just scatter milkweed seeds in my lawn?</h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Yes! Milkweed is hardy enough to take root if it’s simply scattered around your yard – that’s how it spreads naturally. But, if you have a specific planting scheme in mind or want better odds of germination, prep your soil first and press each seed into the ground by walking over them or using your hands – no need to bury them.</p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Will milkweed take over my yard?</h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Common milkweed behaves aggressively in the lawn and can take over a planting scheme. For a less boisterous alternative, try butterfly weed, swamp milkweed, or purple milkweed.</p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">What other plants are native to Virginia?</h3>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https://www.wikilawn.com/lawn-care/virginia/best-native-plants-virginia/\">Virginia’s native plants</a> include:&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>Black-Eyed Susan</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Cutleaf Coneflower</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Whorled Tickseed</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Eared Coreopsis</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Eastern Redbud</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Flowering Dogwood</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Blue False Indigo</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Cardinal Flower</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Fall Phlox</li>\n</ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"find\">Where to Find Milkweed in Virginia</h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Because milkweed is so beneficial to pollinators, there are plenty of ways to find it. Native plant nurseries are likely to sell milkweed varieties, so check out this list of <a href=\"https://vnps.org/native-plant-nursery-list/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">native plant nurseries in Virginia</a> compiled by the Virginia Native Plants Society for options near you.</p>\n\n\n\n<p><br>Prefer to buy your plants online? The Virginia page on the blog <a href=\"https://www.growmilkweedplants.com/virginia.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Grow Milkweed Plants</a> has online purchase options specifically for Virginia natives.</p>\n\n\n\n<p>The great thing about native plants is they’re typically low-maintenance. You can further minimize your outdoor chores by hiring a <a href=\"https://www.wikilawn.com/\">lawn care pro near you</a> to handle the yard’s mowing, trimming, and edging. Connect with trusted pros in <a href=\"https://www.wikilawn.com/lawn-care/va/richmond/\">Richmond</a>, <a href=\"https://www.wikilawn.com/lawn-care/va/alexandria/\">Alexandria</a>, <a href=\"https://www.wikilawn.com/lawn-care/va/falls-church/\">Falls Church</a>, and many other cities across the state.</p>\n\n\n\n<p>Main Photo Credit: <a href=\"https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Monarch_Butterfly_on_Swamp_Milkweed_(28780183930).jpg\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">USFWSmidwest</a> / Wikimedia Commons / Public domain</p>\n","title":"8 Milkweeds Native to Virginia","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.5286624203821657,"src":"/static/5838a836a04e8a9177bfc4730910bd04/1789c/Monarch-Butterfly-on-Swamp-Milkweed.jpg","srcSet":"/static/5838a836a04e8a9177bfc4730910bd04/107df/Monarch-Butterfly-on-Swamp-Milkweed.jpg 320w,\n/static/5838a836a04e8a9177bfc4730910bd04/293e9/Monarch-Butterfly-on-Swamp-Milkweed.jpg 500w,\n/static/5838a836a04e8a9177bfc4730910bd04/f2cbb/Monarch-Butterfly-on-Swamp-Milkweed.jpg 800w,\n/static/5838a836a04e8a9177bfc4730910bd04/1789c/Monarch-Butterfly-on-Swamp-Milkweed.jpg 960w,\n/static/5838a836a04e8a9177bfc4730910bd04/c26c2/Monarch-Butterfly-on-Swamp-Milkweed.jpg 1200w","srcWebp":"/static/5838a836a04e8a9177bfc4730910bd04/1dd6e/Monarch-Butterfly-on-Swamp-Milkweed.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/5838a836a04e8a9177bfc4730910bd04/67b76/Monarch-Butterfly-on-Swamp-Milkweed.webp 320w,\n/static/5838a836a04e8a9177bfc4730910bd04/8df11/Monarch-Butterfly-on-Swamp-Milkweed.webp 500w,\n/static/5838a836a04e8a9177bfc4730910bd04/98a65/Monarch-Butterfly-on-Swamp-Milkweed.webp 800w,\n/static/5838a836a04e8a9177bfc4730910bd04/1dd6e/Monarch-Butterfly-on-Swamp-Milkweed.webp 960w,\n/static/5838a836a04e8a9177bfc4730910bd04/3cc96/Monarch-Butterfly-on-Swamp-Milkweed.webp 1200w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"8 Milkweeds Native to Virginia","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":"Virginia boasts several native milkweed species. Check out these 8 milkweeds native to Virginia to help you pick the right one for your yard."}}},{"node":{"id":"8b5a0725-b845-5cfa-a74c-1b0c38201a5f","slug":"best-native-plants-rhode-island","path":"/lawn-care/rhodeisland/best-native-plants-rhode-island/","status":"publish","template":"","format":"standard","author":{"description":"Cecilia Acevedo is a professional writer, translator, and mom who loves God, reading, and a good rainy nap. She combines her passion for writing with her love for the colorful world painted by her children.","name":"Cecilia Acevedo","id":"0fc0b86b-7672-540a-a0af-58a8d66c6781","path":"/author/cecilia-acevedo/","avatar_urls":{"wordpress_96":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/75c4cb2a06e5f57c7018b7cb365dd82d?s=96&d=mm&r=g"}},"categories":[{"id":"205f24d4-c1e5-5728-bb28-8ba70eecbc7a","name":"Lawn Care","count":432,"path":"/category/lawn-care/"},{"id":"f8e22c75-f94e-5cf6-974d-09fca25a63ec","name":"Rhode Island","count":1,"path":"/category/lawn-care/rhodeisland/"}],"date":"May 25th, 2023","excerpt":"<p>Rhode Island, with its vibrant cities like Providence and Newport, is a state that prides itself on its rich cultural heritage and stunning landscapes. And what better way to celebrate this unique blend of city charm and natural splendor than by adorning your surroundings with the 8 best native plants for Rhode Island?&nbsp; These extraordinary [&hellip;]</p>\n","content":"\n<p>Rhode Island, with its vibrant cities like Providence and Newport, is a state that prides itself on its rich cultural heritage and stunning landscapes. And what better way to celebrate this unique blend of city charm and natural splendor than by adorning your surroundings with the 8 best native plants for Rhode Island?&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p>These extraordinary plants infuse your outdoor space with captivating aesthetics and play a crucial role in preserving the local ecosystem. Let’s take a closer look at the hidden treasures that await in Rhode Island&#8217;s diverse landscapes.</p>\n\n\n\n<p>Native plants offer the following benefits:</p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>Adapted to local climate and soil conditions, requiring less maintenance and watering.</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Provide habitat and food for local wildlife, supporting biodiversity.</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Help conserve water resources by reducing the need for irrigation.</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Promote pollination and attract beneficial insects.</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Contribute to the preservation of the local ecosystem and protect against invasive species.</li>\n</ul>\n\n\n\n<p>In this article, we’ll cover the following:</p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"#native\">8 Native Plants for Your Rhode Island Backyard</a>\n<ol>\n<li><a href=\"#angelica\">American Angelica</a></li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"#columbine\">Red Columbine</a></li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"#milkweed\">Purple Milkweed</a></li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"#indigo\">Yellow Wild Indigo</a></li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"#iris\">Northern Blue Flag</a></li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"#sorrel\">Violet Wood-Sorrel</a></li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"#bloodroot\">Bloodroot</a></li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"#ash\">White Ash</a></li>\n</ol>\n</li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"#how\">How to Choose Native Plants for Your Rhode Island Landscape</a></li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"#faq\">FAQ About Native Rhode Island Plants</a></li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"#where\">Where to Find Native Plants in Rhode Island</a></li>\n</ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"native\">8 Native Plants for Your Rhode Island Yard</h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"angelica\">1. American Angelica <em>(Angelica atropurpurea)</em></h3>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"800\" height=\"533\" src=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/American-Angelica-Angelica-atropurpurea.jpg\" alt=\"American Angelica\" class=\"wp-image-15766\" srcset=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/American-Angelica-Angelica-atropurpurea.jpg 800w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/American-Angelica-Angelica-atropurpurea-300x200.jpg 300w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/American-Angelica-Angelica-atropurpurea-768x512.jpg 768w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/American-Angelica-Angelica-atropurpurea-600x400.jpg 600w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/American-Angelica-Angelica-atropurpurea-480x320.jpg 480w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" /></figure></div>\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\">Photo Credit: <a href=\"https://www.flickr.com/photos/douglas_mcgrady/31358793733/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Doug McGrady</a> / Flickr / <a href=\"https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">CC BY 2.0</a></p>\n\n\n\n<p></p>\n\n\n\n<p>American angelica adds a touch of elegance to Rhode Island&#8217;s landscapes. With its cream-colored, greenish tiny flowers delicately adorning its tall stems, this native marvel is a beauty. As the seasons unfold, the flowers gracefully transition into dry seed-like fruits. Standing tall and proud, it gives any landscape a sense of height and structure.</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Plant type: </strong>Herbaceous</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>USDA Hardiness Zone:</strong> 4 to 7</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Sun: </strong>Full sun to partial shade.</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Soil: </strong>Clay, clay, loam. Acid, alkaline, neutral. Moist but well-drained.</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Duration: </strong>Perennial.</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Fragrance: </strong>It has a floral sweet scent.</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Bloom time: </strong>Fall and summer.</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Water needs: </strong>Medium to wet.</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Mature height: </strong>3 &#8211; 10 feet</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Maintenance: </strong>Low. Under optimal growing conditions, the American angelica can be cultivated from seed and even self-seed if the spent flower umbels are left undisturbed.</p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"columbine\">2. Red Columbine <em>(Aquilegia canadensis)</em></h3>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"800\" height=\"640\" src=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Red-Columbine.jpg\" alt=\"Red Columbine\" class=\"wp-image-12623\" srcset=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Red-Columbine.jpg 800w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Red-Columbine-300x240.jpg 300w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Red-Columbine-768x614.jpg 768w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Red-Columbine-480x384.jpg 480w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" /></figure></div>\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\">Photo Credit: <a href=\"https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Red_Columbine_%283630187830%29.jpg\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Jason Hollinger</a> / Wikimedia Commons / <a href=\"https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">CC BY 2.0</a></p>\n\n\n\n<p></p>\n\n\n\n<p>Red columbine is a native plant that adds vibrant colors to your landscape. As the early spring unfolds, a spectacle takes center stage as this plant&#8217;s red and yellow flowers burst into full bloom. Like nature&#8217;s trumpet call, these tubular blossoms beckon hummingbirds, butterflies, and bumblebees to partake in their nectar-filled delights.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p>When the flowers have completed their performance, the red columbine transforms, becoming a ground cover that blankets the earth with its foliage. Like a vibrant tapestry woven by nature&#8217;s hand, it adds a touch of beauty to any landscape.</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Plant type: </strong>Herbaceous</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>USDA Hardiness Zone:</strong> 3 to 8</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Sun: </strong>Full sun to partial shade.</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Soil: </strong>Chalk, clay, loam, sand. Acid, alkaline, neutral. Moist but well-drained.</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Duration: </strong>Semi-evergreen perennial.</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Fragrance: </strong>No fragrance.</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Bloom time: </strong>Spring and summer.</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Water needs: </strong>Low to moderate.</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Mature height: </strong>8 to 10 inches.</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Potential hazards:</strong> Toxic to humans and animals if ingested.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Maintenance: </strong>Low. Columbine has a self-seeding ability, allowing it to spread and establish new plants effortlessly. In the second year, these seedlings burst into bloom, gracing your garden with another round of flowers.</p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"milkweed\">3. Purple Milkweed <em>(Asclepias purpurascens)</em></h3>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"800\" height=\"534\" src=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Purple-milkweed-Asclepias-purpurascens.jpg\" alt=\"Purple milkweed\" class=\"wp-image-15769\" srcset=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Purple-milkweed-Asclepias-purpurascens.jpg 800w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Purple-milkweed-Asclepias-purpurascens-300x200.jpg 300w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Purple-milkweed-Asclepias-purpurascens-768x513.jpg 768w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Purple-milkweed-Asclepias-purpurascens-600x400.jpg 600w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Purple-milkweed-Asclepias-purpurascens-480x320.jpg 480w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" /></figure></div>\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\">Photo Credit: <a href=\"https://www.flickr.com/photos/52450054@N04/50273637056\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Judy Gallagher</a> / Flickr / <a href=\"https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">CC BY 2.0</a></p>\n\n\n\n<p></p>\n\n\n\n<p>Purple milkweed is the secret ingredient that adds a touch of beauty to Rhode Island&#8217;s backyards. Picture a magnificent fashion show of colors, with flowers ranging from regal deep purple to delicate rose-pink, showcasing nature&#8217;s most exquisite shades on its botanical runway.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p>But there&#8217;s more to this beautiful plant than meets the eye. Purple milkweed hosts the monarch butterfly larvae, creating a bustling butterfly hotspot in your garden. With purple milkweed, your Rhode Island yard transforms into a showstopper, turning your outdoor space into a captivating spectacle.</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Plant type: </strong>Herbaceous</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>USDA Hardiness Zone:</strong> 3 &#8211; 8</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Sun: </strong>Full sun.</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Soil: </strong>Clay, loam,<strong> </strong>sand. Acid, alkaline, neutral. Well-drained.</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Duration: </strong>Perennial.</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Fragrance: </strong>It has a lilting honey fragrance</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Season of interest: </strong>Spring to summer.</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Water needs: </strong>Low to Moderate.</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Mature height: </strong>2 &#8211; 3 feet</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Potential hazards: </strong>Poisonous to humans, pets, and other animals.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Maintenance:</strong> Low. The purple milkweed is a plant that can be pretty invasive. It spreads aggressively through seeds and rhizomes, making it unsuitable for small gardens.</p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"indigo\">4. Yellow Wild Indigo <em>(Baptisia tinctoria)</em></h3>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"800\" height=\"600\" src=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Yellow-Wild-Indigo.jpg\" alt=\"Yellow Wild Indigo\" class=\"wp-image-14357\" srcset=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Yellow-Wild-Indigo.jpg 800w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Yellow-Wild-Indigo-300x225.jpg 300w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Yellow-Wild-Indigo-768x576.jpg 768w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Yellow-Wild-Indigo-510x382.jpg 510w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Yellow-Wild-Indigo-480x360.jpg 480w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" /></figure></div>\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\">Photo Credit: <a href=\"https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Yellow_Wild_Indigo_-_Flickr_-_treegrow.jpg\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Katja Schulz from Washington, D. C., USA</a> / Wikimedia Commons / <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0\" target=\"_blank\">CC BY 2.0</a></p>\n\n\n\n<p></p>\n\n\n\n<p>Yellow wild indigo is a smooth, upright perennial that stands tall and proud, commanding attention with its striking appearance. Picture clusters of small, bright yellow to cream-colored flowers resembling delicate peas adorning the stems above a lush foliage mound.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p>The leaves, reminiscent of clover, are trifoliate and sport a delightful gray-green hue. The yellow wild indigo invites you to turn your garden into a captivating tapestry of yellow shades.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Plant type: </strong>Herbaceous</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>USDA Hardiness Zone:</strong> 3 to 9</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Sun: </strong>Full sun to partial shade.</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Soil: </strong>Sand. Acid. Moist but well-drained.</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Duration: </strong>Deciduous perennial.</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Fragrance: </strong>No fragrance.</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Bloom time: </strong>Late spring and summer.</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Water needs: </strong>Dry to moderate.</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Mature height: </strong>2 to 3 feet</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Potential hazards: </strong>Poisonous to humans and animals if ingested.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Maintenance:</strong> Low. It is advisable not to relocate this plant once it has established itself. Attempting to grow it from seed may pose a challenge.</p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"iris\">5. Northern Blue Flag <em>(Iris versicolor)</em></h3>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"800\" height=\"800\" src=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Northern-Blue-Flag-Iris-Versicolor.jpg\" alt=\"Northern Blue Flag\" class=\"wp-image-15768\" srcset=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Northern-Blue-Flag-Iris-Versicolor.jpg 800w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Northern-Blue-Flag-Iris-Versicolor-300x300.jpg 300w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Northern-Blue-Flag-Iris-Versicolor-150x150.jpg 150w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Northern-Blue-Flag-Iris-Versicolor-768x768.jpg 768w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Northern-Blue-Flag-Iris-Versicolor-600x600.jpg 600w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Northern-Blue-Flag-Iris-Versicolor-480x480.jpg 480w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" /></figure></div>\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\">Photo Credit: <a href=\"https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Blue_Flag,_Ottawa.jpg\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">D. Gordon E. Robertson</a> / Wikimedia Commons / <a href=\"https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">CC BY-SA 3.0</a></p>\n\n\n\n<p></p>\n\n\n\n<p>Prepare to be captivated by the northern blue flag. Its sword-shaped blue-green leaves, clumped together, create a striking visual display. It possesses a mass of enchanting blue, lavender, and white blossoms, each with three upright inner standards and distinctively marked sepals.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p>While the fruit forms as a capsule, this blue Iris thrives best by dividing its rhizomes after the blooms fade. Invite the blue flag into your Rhode Island yard, and let its presence transport you to a world of floral splendor.</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Plant type: </strong>Herbaceous</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>USDA Hardiness Zone: </strong>3 to 9</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Sun: </strong>Full sun, partial sun.</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Soil: </strong>Clay, loam. Acid, neutral. Moist, poorly drained soil.</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Duration: </strong>Deciduous<strong> </strong>Perennial.</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Fragrance: </strong>Slightly fragrance.</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Season of interest: </strong>Spring and summer.</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Water needs: </strong>Wet.</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Mature height: </strong>2 to 3 feet</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Potential hazards: </strong>Poisonous to humans and animals.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Maintenance: </strong>Low. After the first frost, trim back the leaves above the crown. This helps the plants prepare for winter and encourages healthy growth in the spring.</p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"sorrel\">6. Violet Wood-Sorrel <em>(Oxalis violacea)</em></h3>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"800\" height=\"600\" src=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Violet-Wood-Sorrel-Oxalis-violacea.jpg\" alt=\"Violet Wood-Sorrel\" class=\"wp-image-15770\" srcset=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Violet-Wood-Sorrel-Oxalis-violacea.jpg 800w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Violet-Wood-Sorrel-Oxalis-violacea-300x225.jpg 300w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Violet-Wood-Sorrel-Oxalis-violacea-768x576.jpg 768w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Violet-Wood-Sorrel-Oxalis-violacea-510x382.jpg 510w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Violet-Wood-Sorrel-Oxalis-violacea-480x360.jpg 480w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" /></figure></div>\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\">Photo Credit: <a href=\"https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Violet_Wood-Sorrel_-_Oxalis_violacea.JPG\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Ilona Loser</a> / Wikimedia Commons / <a href=\"https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">CC BY-SA 3.0</a></p>\n\n\n\n<p></p>\n\n\n\n<p>Prepare to be enchanted by the delicate beauty of the violet wood-sorrel. This native plant weaves a tapestry of color and charm into Rhode Island&#8217;s landscapes. It has long-stemmed leaves emerging gracefully from the base, surpassing the flowering stem in length. And then, at the end of each stem, behold a delightful cluster of 4 to 19 flowers, like a miniature bouquet, showcasing shades of lavender and pinkish-purple.</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Plant type: </strong>Herbaceous</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>USDA Hardiness Zone:</strong> 5 to 9&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Sun: </strong>Full sun to partial shade.</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Soil: </strong>Loam, sand. Acid, alkaline, neutral. Well-drained.</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Duration: </strong>Perennial</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Fragrance: </strong>No fragrance.</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Season of interest: </strong>Spring and summer.</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Water needs: </strong>Low to moderate.</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Mature height: </strong>6 to 10 inches</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Potential hazards: </strong>Toxic if ingested in large amounts.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Maintenance: </strong>Moderate. It has to be planted during fall.</p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"bloodroot\">7. Bloodroot <em>(Sanguinaria canadensis)</em></h3>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"800\" height=\"600\" src=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Bloodroot-Sanguinaria-canadensis.jpg\" alt=\"Bloodroot\" class=\"wp-image-15767\" srcset=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Bloodroot-Sanguinaria-canadensis.jpg 800w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Bloodroot-Sanguinaria-canadensis-300x225.jpg 300w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Bloodroot-Sanguinaria-canadensis-768x576.jpg 768w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Bloodroot-Sanguinaria-canadensis-510x382.jpg 510w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Bloodroot-Sanguinaria-canadensis-480x360.jpg 480w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" /></figure></div>\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\">Photo Credit: <a href=\"https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Bloodroot_%28Sanguinaria_canadensis%29_-_Guelph.jpg\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Ryan Hodnett</a> / Wikimedia Commons / <a href=\"https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">CC BY-SA 4.0</a></p>\n\n\n\n<p></p>\n\n\n\n<p>Bloodroot is a native plant that adds a touch of magic to any landscape. Imagine a single leaf and flower rising on separate stems. Watch as the leaf gently wraps around the flower bud like a protective embrace. On a smooth stalk, a solitary white flower takes center stage.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p>Flowers open during the day and close their petals when night falls. The fleeting performance leaves you in awe of nature&#8217;s beauty. Get ready to welcome bloodroot into your garden, and be prepared for a botanical spectacle.</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Plant type: </strong>Herbaceous</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>USDA Hardiness Zone: </strong>3 to 8</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Sun: </strong>Part shade to full shade.</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Soil: </strong>Clay, loam. Acid, alkaline, neutral. Moist but well-drained.</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Duration: </strong>Perennial.</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Fragrance: </strong>Light floral fragrance.</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Season of interest: </strong>Spring</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Water needs: </strong>Moderate&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Mature height: </strong>6 to 10 inches</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Potential hazards: </strong>Poisonous to humans, pets, and other animals.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Maintenance: </strong>Low. It is propagated by division during autumn or by seed. Its germination can be erratic over the following 2 years.</p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"ash\">8. White Ash <em>(Fraxinus americana)</em></h3>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"800\" height=\"600\" src=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/A-White-Ash-tree.jpg\" alt=\"A White Ash tree\" class=\"wp-image-15765\" srcset=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/A-White-Ash-tree.jpg 800w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/A-White-Ash-tree-300x225.jpg 300w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/A-White-Ash-tree-768x576.jpg 768w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/A-White-Ash-tree-510x382.jpg 510w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/A-White-Ash-tree-480x360.jpg 480w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" /></figure></div>\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\">Photo Credit: <a href=\"https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:2022-10-06_08_22_51_A_White_Ash_changing_color_during_autumn_along_Aquetong_Lane_in_the_Mountainview_section_of_Ewing_Township,_Mercer_County,_New_Jersey.jpg\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Famartin</a> / Wikimedia Commons / <a href=\"https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">CC BY-SA 4.0</a></p>\n\n\n\n<p></p>\n\n\n\n<p>Elevate your Rhode Island backyard to new heights of beauty by introducing beautiful white ash trees. These magnificent specimens thrive in the local climate and offer a long-lasting display throughout the seasons.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p>Picture the distinctive bark, boasting a stunning palette ranging from yellow-brown to light gray, adorned with corky textures and deep furrows that accentuate the tree&#8217;s character. In the spring, delicate clusters of small, pale green to purple flowers emerge, forming graceful panicles that sway in the gentle breeze. As summer transitions into fall, prepare to be spellbound by the sight of matured, one-winged samaras.</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Plant type: </strong>Tree</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>USDA Hardiness Zone:</strong> 3 to 9</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Sun: </strong>Full sun.</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Soil: </strong>Clay,<strong> </strong>loam, sand. Acid, neutral. Moist but well-drained.</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Duration: </strong>Deciduous<strong> </strong>perennial</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Fragrance:</strong> No fragrance.</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Season of interest:</strong> Spring, summer, and autumn.</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Water needs: </strong>Moderate</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Mature height: </strong>60 to 80 feet</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Maintenance: </strong>Moderate. Best sited in locations protected from strong winds. Generally tolerant of urban conditions, particularly if well-sited in the landscape.</p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"how\">How to Choose Native Plants for Your Rhode Island Yard</h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Enhance the beauty of your garden by incorporating native plants, but remember to choose wisely to ensure their success. When selecting plants for your Rhode Island yard, it&#8217;s crucial to consider factors such as sunlight, soil quality, and irrigation.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p>Since Rhode Island falls within <a href=\"https://planthardiness.ars.usda.gov/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">USDA hardiness zones</a> 6 and 7, opting for plants that thrive in these conditions is essential. By making informed choices and selecting well-suited plants for your region, you&#8217;ll create a garden that flourishes with vibrant life, bringing you year-round joy and beauty.</p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"faq\">FAQ About Native Rhode Island Plants</h2>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"schema-faq wp-block-yoast-faq-block\"><div class=\"schema-faq-section\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">What are some Rhode Island native trees?</strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">Rhode Island boasts a wide variety of native trees, including hickory, ash, elm, red maple, cherry, beech, birch, poplar, pine, and cedar. These magnificent trees add beauty to the landscape and play a crucial role in supporting the local ecosystem.<br><br></p> </div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">What other native plants can I use in my Rhode Island yard?</strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">Here are some additional native plant species for Rhode Island:<br>• Wamp azalea (Rhododendron viscosum)<br>• Alnus serrulata (Smooth Alder)<br>• Maryland golden aster (Chrysopsis mariana)<br><br></p> </div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">How do I choose the right plants for my native garden?</strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">If you find yourself unsure about selecting the perfect plant for your native garden, don&#8217;t worry! There are resources available to guide you on your quest. The <a target=\"_blank\" href=\"https://web.uri.edu/celsnews/native-plant-guide/\" rel=\"noopener\">University of Rhode Island</a> offers a helpful guide specifically designed to assist you in choosing the ideal native plants for your landscape.<br><br></p> </div> </div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"where\">Where to Find Native Plants in Rhode Island</h2>\n\n\n\n<p>When landscaping your backyard in Rhode Island, turn to local nurseries for sourcing native plants. Choosing native plants from local nurseries ensures that they are well-adapted to the climate and soil conditions of the region, making them more resilient and easier to maintain in the long run.</p>\n\n\n\n<p>To find native plants for your garden, explore native nurseries, the <a href=\"https://riwps.org/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Rhode Island Wild Plant Society</a>, and community plant and nature conservation groups. These valuable sources can provide you with a wealth of information and connect you with like-minded individuals who share a passion for native plant conservation and gardening.</p>\n\n\n\n<p>However, selecting the right plants is just the first step. To ensure your yard’s continued health and vitality, ongoing care and maintenance are essential. Properly caring for your lawn will contribute to its long-term success and keep your landscape looking its best.</p>\n\n\n\n<p>Need help from a pro? Hire a <a href=\"https://www.wikilawn.com/\">lawn care pro near you</a> to handle the yard’s mowing, trimming, and edging. We can connect you with trusted pros in <a href=\"https://www.wikilawn.com/lawn-care/ri/coventry/\">Coventry</a>, <a href=\"https://www.wikilawn.com/lawn-care/ri/providence/\">Providence</a>, <a href=\"https://www.wikilawn.com/lawn-care/ri/cumberland/\">Cumberland</a>, and many other cities across the state.</p>\n\n\n\n<p>Main Photo Credit: <a href=\"https://www.flickr.com/photos/calliope/9362591760/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">liz west</a> / Flickr / <a href=\"https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">CC BY 2.0</a></p>\n","title":"8 Best Native Plants for Rhode Island","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.7045454545454546,"src":"/static/ccb599fea1fe205d2a4dcf56f40016c3/1789c/Blithwold-Mansion-Gardens-and-Arboretum.jpg","srcSet":"/static/ccb599fea1fe205d2a4dcf56f40016c3/107df/Blithwold-Mansion-Gardens-and-Arboretum.jpg 320w,\n/static/ccb599fea1fe205d2a4dcf56f40016c3/293e9/Blithwold-Mansion-Gardens-and-Arboretum.jpg 500w,\n/static/ccb599fea1fe205d2a4dcf56f40016c3/f2cbb/Blithwold-Mansion-Gardens-and-Arboretum.jpg 800w,\n/static/ccb599fea1fe205d2a4dcf56f40016c3/1789c/Blithwold-Mansion-Gardens-and-Arboretum.jpg 960w,\n/static/ccb599fea1fe205d2a4dcf56f40016c3/c26c2/Blithwold-Mansion-Gardens-and-Arboretum.jpg 1200w","srcWebp":"/static/ccb599fea1fe205d2a4dcf56f40016c3/1dd6e/Blithwold-Mansion-Gardens-and-Arboretum.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/ccb599fea1fe205d2a4dcf56f40016c3/67b76/Blithwold-Mansion-Gardens-and-Arboretum.webp 320w,\n/static/ccb599fea1fe205d2a4dcf56f40016c3/8df11/Blithwold-Mansion-Gardens-and-Arboretum.webp 500w,\n/static/ccb599fea1fe205d2a4dcf56f40016c3/98a65/Blithwold-Mansion-Gardens-and-Arboretum.webp 800w,\n/static/ccb599fea1fe205d2a4dcf56f40016c3/1dd6e/Blithwold-Mansion-Gardens-and-Arboretum.webp 960w,\n/static/ccb599fea1fe205d2a4dcf56f40016c3/3cc96/Blithwold-Mansion-Gardens-and-Arboretum.webp 1200w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"8 Best Native Plants for Rhode Island","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":"Discover the top 8 native plants for Rhode Island, boosting aesthetics and supporting local ecosystem preservation."}}}],"blogPages":[{"id":"ck16oqdtd8fk70a30n2rnn4t8","metaTitle":"WikiLawn | Lawn Care Advice for your Area | Outdoor Services","metaDescription":"Lawn Care Advice for your Area | Outdoor Services"}],"prevPageLink":"/blog/page/9/","nextPageLink":"/blog/page/11/","currentPage":10}}}