{"componentChunkName":"component---src-templates-blog-page-blog-page-js","path":"/blog/page/44/","result":{"pageContext":{"posts":[{"node":{"id":"a272f150-42e5-5164-984b-3cff33b7fc2a","slug":"low-maintenance-landscaping","path":"/lawn-care/fl/tampa/low-maintenance-landscaping/","status":"publish","template":"","format":"standard","author":{"description":"Danielle Gorski lives with her family in Texas. She has a degree in Professional Studies and a minor in marketing. Her hobbies include reading, drawing, and writing.","name":"Danielle Gorski","id":"7c21f4d6-aa31-5681-9530-3d69932d07c4","path":"/author/danielle-gorski/","avatar_urls":{"wordpress_96":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/d4dbd5997a7fe91daa87a0bd0839baff?s=96&d=mm&r=g"}},"categories":[{"id":"57f1b1d9-6347-5707-b4b6-65e6dd1b393d","name":"Florida","count":46,"path":"/category/lawn-care/fl/"},{"id":"205f24d4-c1e5-5728-bb28-8ba70eecbc7a","name":"Lawn Care","count":432,"path":"/category/lawn-care/"},{"id":"dc593a91-bb7f-5961-b8a5-96bfdf119898","name":"Tampa","count":8,"path":"/category/lawn-care/fl/tampa/"}],"date":"April 3rd, 2023","excerpt":"<p>Tampa has so much to offer, from Ybor City to Lowry Zoo to the Gulf Coast beaches. So why spend your weekends weeding the yard when you could be out with the family enjoying the sites? If you want more free time and lessen your yard work load, make your landscape easy to maintain. From [&hellip;]</p>\n","content":"\n<p>Tampa has so much to offer, from Ybor City to Lowry Zoo to the Gulf Coast beaches. So why spend your weekends weeding the yard when you could be out with the family enjoying the sites?</p>\n\n\n\n<p>If you want more free time and lessen your yard work load, make your landscape easy to maintain. From xeriscaping to native plants, check out these 8 low-maintenance landscaping ideas for Tampa.</p>\n\n\n\n<p>In this article, we’ll cover:</p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"#ideas\">8 Low-Maintenance Landscaping Ideas for Tampa</a>\n<ol>\n<li><a href=\"#xeriscaping\">Try Xeriscaping</a></li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"#native\">Grow Native Florida Plants</a></li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"#hardscapes\">Add Hardscapes to Your Yard</a></li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"#groundcovers\">Go with Groundcovers</a></li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"#artificial\">Install Artificial Turf</a></li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"#perennials\">Plant Perennials</a></li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"#mulch\">Use Mulch in Plant Beds</a></li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"#irrigation\">Install an Automatic Irrigation System</a></li>\n</ol>\n</li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"#faq\">FAQs About Low-Maintenance Landscaping Ideas for Tampa</a></li>\n</ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"ideas\">8 Low-Maintenance Landscaping Ideas for Tampa</h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Yard work is a year-round chore in Tampa with the mild climate and hot, humid temperatures. Beat the heat by trying these low-maintenance landscaping ideas so that you can spend less time working on your yard and have more time to enjoy the Tampa sights.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"xeriscaping\">1. Try Xeriscaping</h2>\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/2023/03/Xeriscaping-garden.jpg\" alt=\"plants in a xeriscaping garden\" class=\"wp-image-12164\" srcset=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Xeriscaping-garden.jpg 800w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Xeriscaping-garden-300x199.jpg 300w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Xeriscaping-garden-768x510.jpg 768w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Xeriscaping-garden-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.flickr.com/photos/jeremylevinedesign/2888120894/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Jeremy Levine</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>A <a href=\"https://livinggreen.ifas.ufl.edu/topics/landscaping/xeriscaping/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">xeriscape</a> is landscaping that requires very little water, which means they require less care. Natural rainfall should be sufficient for a xeriscape to survive without your landscaping needing any supplemental water.</p>\n\n\n\n<p>Xeriscaping includes:</p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>Growing plants that don’t need a lot of water</li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https://landscape-water-conservation.extension.org/grouping-plants-into-hydrozones/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Hydrozoning</a> by grouping plants with similar water requirements together</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Using mulch to help the soil retain moisture</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Trying <a href=\"https://gardeningsolutions.ifas.ufl.edu/water/articles/turf/selection.shtml\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">drought-tolerant grasses</a></li>\n\n\n\n<li>Avoiding turfgrass</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Growing <a href=\"https://nwdistrict.ifas.ufl.edu/hort/2020/05/14/drought-tolerant-landscape-plants/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">drought-tolerant</a> landscaping plants such as <a href=\"https://sfyl.ifas.ufl.edu/media/sfylifasufledu/orange/hort-res/docs/pdf/029-Succulent-Factsheet-2022.pdf\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">succulents</a></li>\n\n\n\n<li>Installing an efficient irrigation system</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Using yard decor to take up space</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Installing hardscaping like pavers, walkways and fire pits</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Installing rock gardens or decorative rocks</li>\n</ul>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Advantages of xeriscaping:</strong></p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>Decreases the amount of time spent taking care of landscaping plants</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Saves on water costs</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Conserves water resources</li>\n\n\n\n<li>No need for fertilizers or pesticides</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Less mowing</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Helps prevent weed growth</li>\n</ul>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Estimated cost: </strong>Turning your traditional landscape into a xeriscape costs <strong>$1.50-$2.50</strong> per square foot. Depending on the nature and scope of the project, overall costs range from <strong>$8,737 to $22,226</strong>. Although the initial cost is expensive, decreased watering and maintenance expenses save homeowners money long-term.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"native\">2. Grow Native Florida Plants</h2>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"800\" height=\"571\" src=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Black-Eyed-Susan.jpg\" alt=\"closeup image of black-eyed susan flower\" class=\"wp-image-12199\" srcset=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Black-Eyed-Susan.jpg 800w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Black-Eyed-Susan-300x214.jpg 300w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Black-Eyed-Susan-768x548.jpg 768w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Black-Eyed-Susan-480x343.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:Rudbeckia_hirta_kz03.jpg\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Krzysztof Ziarnek, Kenraiz</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>If you want your landscaping to thrive with the minimum amount of effort, a simple solution is to plant <a href=\"https://discover.pbcgov.org/coextension/horticulture/pages/florida-friendly-landscaping.aspx\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Florida-friendly</a> native plants that thrive in subtropical, humid temperatures.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p>Look for plants that are drought-tolerant and pest resistant. The more durable and hardy a plant, the more likely it is to survive on its own without a helping hand. Avoid plants that are delicate or picky, as these take more time and effort to keep happy.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p>Some Florida native plants that are good for Tampa landscapes:</p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>American beautyberry</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Black-eyed Susan</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Beach sunflower</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Carolina jessamine</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Coral honeysuckle</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Firebush</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Hairy leafcup</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Joe-Pye weed</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Muhly grass</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Oakleaf hydrangea</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Prairie Iris</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Rusty lyonia</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Sabal palm tree</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Southern wood fern</li>\n\n\n\n<li>White fringe tree</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Yellow star anise</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Zephyr lily</li>\n</ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Low-maintenance native plants require minimal care and don’t need regular watering, pruning, or spraying in order to thrive. These Florida-friendly plants are acclimated to the local environment. Look for plants that are:</p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>Drought-tolerant</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Pest-resistant</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Slow-growing</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Don’t require fertilizer</li>\n</ul>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Advantages of native plants:</strong></p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>Native plants create a natural habitat for local wildlife</li>\n\n\n\n<li>They are adapted to Florida’s climate</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Resistant to pests and diseases</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Native plants don’t require pesticides and chemicals, making them eco-friendly</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Saves money on pesticides and chemicals</li>\n</ul>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Estimated cost: </strong>Average prices for native plants are <strong>$15 to $50 per shrub</strong>, <strong>$5 to $50 per vine</strong>, and <strong>$150 and $3,000 per tree</strong>. For a more thorough project, homeowners can expect to pay <strong>$585 to $3,300 for a professional flower bed installation</strong>.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"hardscapes\">3. Add Hardscapes to Your Yard</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/2023/03/Patio.jpg\" alt=\"Patio with cozy furniture near potted trees and old house\" class=\"wp-image-12818\" srcset=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Patio.jpg 800w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Patio-300x200.jpg 300w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Patio-768x512.jpg 768w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Patio-600x400.jpg 600w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Patio-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.pexels.com/photo/patio-with-cozy-furniture-near-potted-trees-and-old-house-4915585/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Pexels</a></p>\n\n\n\n<p></p>\n\n\n\n<p>If you are looking for ways to reduce living space for your landscaping plants and grass to grow, try filling those places with hardscapes. Some ideas you can try are:</p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>Decorative rocks</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Rock gardens</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Stone pavers</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Garden walkways</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Pergolas</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>Retaining wall</li>\n</ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Hardscapes are easy to maintain because they don’t require trimming, fertilizing, watering, or any of the time-consuming tasks that caring for a lawn and plants require. The only thing that hardscapes require is an occasional cleaning.</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Advantages of hardscaping:</strong></p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>Easy to maintain</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Conserve water resources</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Increase home value</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Boost curb appeal</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Decrease the amount of high-maintenance grass</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Can serve practical or recreational purposes</li>\n</ul>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Estimated cost: </strong>Hardscaping can be expensive. The price of the project depends on what kind of landscape design and type of hardscape you are installing in your outdoor space.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table is-style-stripes\"><table><tbody><tr><td><strong>Project</strong></td><td><strong>Price</strong></td></tr><tr><td>Decorative rock</td><td>$460 &#8211; $1,000</td></tr><tr><td>Rock garden</td><td>$460 &#8211; $1,000</td></tr><tr><td>Stone paver</td><td>$8 &#8211; $22 per square foot</td></tr><tr><td>Pergola</td><td>$2,000 &#8211; $9,000</td></tr><tr><td>Gazebo</td><td>$4,828 &#8211; $9,930</td></tr><tr><td>Patio</td><td>$2,000 &#8211; $6,500</td></tr><tr><td>Deck</td><td>$4,000 &#8211; 11,000</td></tr><tr><td>Fire pit</td><td>$500 &#8211; $3,000</td></tr><tr><td>Retaining wall</td><td>$3,622 &#8211; $9,582</td></tr></tbody></table></figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"groundcovers\">4. Go 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/2023/03/Blue-daze.jpg\" alt=\"Blue daze flowers\" class=\"wp-image-13156\" srcset=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Blue-daze.jpg 800w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Blue-daze-300x225.jpg 300w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Blue-daze-768x576.jpg 768w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Blue-daze-510x382.jpg 510w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Blue-daze-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/starr-environmental/25190465665/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Forest and Kim Starr</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>Grass takes a long time to mow in the blistering summer heat. Instead of grass, try planting groundcover. These low-growing plants only grow a few inches tall but they act as filler that keeps your lawn green and full. They provide a natural look and require little to no mowing, Groundcovers also attract bees and butterflies to your yard.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p>Some popular <a href=\"https://gardeningsolutions.ifas.ufl.edu/plants/ornamentals/groundcovers.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">groundcovers</a> in Tampa yards include:</p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>Asiatic jasmine</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Azaleas</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Blue daze</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Cast-iron plant</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Perennial peanut</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Sedum</li>\n</ul>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Advantages of groundcovers:</strong></p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>No mowing necessary</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Attract less pests and weeds than traditional grass lawns</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Require less water than turfgrass</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Don’t need fertilizing</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Easy to maintain</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Keeps natural look</li>\n</ul>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Estimated Cost: </strong>Trading turfgrass for groundcover can cost <strong>$4.50 to $26 per square foot</strong>. The type of groundcover will determine the price. If homeowners have to remove their grass from their lawn first, it will cost extra.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"artificial\">5. Install Artificial Turf</h2>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"800\" height=\"599\" src=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Artificial-Grass-1.jpg\" alt=\"Artificial grass and concrete stairs in front yard\" class=\"wp-image-12783\" srcset=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Artificial-Grass-1.jpg 800w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Artificial-Grass-1-300x225.jpg 300w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Artificial-Grass-1-768x575.jpg 768w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Artificial-Grass-1-510x382.jpg 510w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Artificial-Grass-1-480x359.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/nickbastian/4120928604\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Nick Bastian</a> / Flickr / <a href=\"https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nd/2.0/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">CC BY-ND 2.0</a></p>\n\n\n\n<p></p>\n\n\n\n<p>If you want a green lawn year-round without the work it requires, consider installing artificial turf. Artificial grass mimics the appearance of real grass. What’s better is that it comes in a variety of different types so you can choose the perfect grass type for your yard. Some artificial turfs are so life-like that your neighbors won’t be able to tell it isn’t real grass!&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Advantages of artificial turf:</strong></p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"https://sfyl.ifas.ufl.edu/sarasota/natural-resources/water-resources/water-conservation/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Conserves water</a></li>\n\n\n\n<li>Doesn’t need mowing</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Doesn’t need fertilizers, pesticides, or herbicides</li>\n</ul>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Estimated Cost: </strong>While prices vary depending on the type of artificial grass you choose and the shape and size of your yard, artificial turf costs about <strong>$5-$20 per square foot.</strong> Although the upfront costs are expensive, artificial turf doesn’t require maintenance, which saves homeowners a lot of expenses on watering, mowing, and fertilizing.</p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"perennials\">6. Plant Perennials</h2>\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/2023/03/Perennial-Coneflower.jpg\" alt=\"pink flower in a garden\" class=\"wp-image-12766\" srcset=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Perennial-Coneflower.jpg 800w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Perennial-Coneflower-300x200.jpg 300w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Perennial-Coneflower-768x513.jpg 768w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Perennial-Coneflower-600x400.jpg 600w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Perennial-Coneflower-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://pxhere.com/en/photo/1519823\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">PxHere</a></p>\n\n\n\n<p></p>\n\n\n\n<p>If you want a low-maintenance yard, it only makes sense to pick <a href=\"https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/publication/MG035\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">perennial</a> plants. Unlike annuals or biennial plants, perennial plants live for several years. They usually go dormant during the winter and come back again during the warm season.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p>If you’re tired of buying and planting new plants in your plant beds every year, try investing in perennials for your yard.</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Advantages of perennials:</strong></p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>Saves you time and the hassle of having to replant every year</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Saves money on plant purchases</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Deep root system improves soil</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Plants live year-round for many years</li>\n</ul>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Estimated Cost:</strong> The cost depends on the type of plant. All plants are priced differently and some plants are more expensive than others. Perennials typically are more expensive than annuals, although the long-term cost of perennials will be cheaper than replacing your plants every year.</p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"mulch\">7. Use Mulch in Plant Beds</h2>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"800\" height=\"633\" src=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/solar-panels-working-3-1.jpg\" alt=\"A person mulching around a tree with pine bark mulch\" class=\"wp-image-12289\" srcset=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/solar-panels-working-3-1.jpg 800w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/solar-panels-working-3-1-300x237.jpg 300w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/solar-panels-working-3-1-768x608.jpg 768w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/solar-panels-working-3-1-480x380.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/MAD4xco0awI/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">ronstik</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>Mulch retains water, keeping your plant beds moist during the sweltering summer days. The longer the soil retains moisture, the less frequently your plants need to be watered.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p>There are two different categories of mulch: organic and inorganic. Organic mulch is made from plant material such as tree bark, grass clippings, or pine needles. You will have to reapply mulch to your yard more frequently, since after a while organic mulch decomposes and will need to be replaced.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p>Inorganic mulches are made of plastic or stone. Although inorganic mulches are low-maintenance and don’t need to be reapplied to flower beds as frequently as organic mulches, they aren’t as <a href=\"https://www.wikilawn.com/lawn-care/fl/tampa/hurricane-resistant-landscaping-2/\">hurricane-resistant</a> as organic mulches are.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p>Mulch is inexpensive and readily available. Spreading a layer of mulch around your plants is an easy DIY job that will help your landscape thrive with little maintenance.</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Advantages of mulch:</strong></p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>Retains moisture</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Reduces weed growth in plant beds</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Conserves water</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Saves on water bills</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Slows down soil deterioration</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Regulates soil temperature</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Organic mulches add nutrients to the soil</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Aesthetically appealing</li>\n</ul>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Estimated costs: </strong>The price for a bag of mulch costs depends on the type of mulch. Some mulch types, such as leaves or pine needles, are free if they are found around your own yard.</p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>Wood mulch:&nbsp; $3 to $5 per 2-cubic-foot bag</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Rubber mulch: $7 to $10 per 0.8-cubic-foot bag</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Landscape gravel: $4 to $30 per 0.5-cubic-foot bag</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Wood chips: $70 per cubic yard</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Bark mulch: $65 per cubic yard</li>\n</ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"irrigation\">8. Install an Automatic Irrigation System</h2>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" src=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/08/Wikilawn-Sprinklers.jpg\" alt=\"Set of automatic sprinklers watering fresh grass\" class=\"wp-image-10326\" srcset=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/08/Wikilawn-Sprinklers.jpg 1024w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/08/Wikilawn-Sprinklers-300x200.jpg 300w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/08/Wikilawn-Sprinklers-768x512.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" /></figure></div>\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\">Photo Credit: <a href=\"https://www.flickr.com/photos/aquamech-utah/24445181093\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Aqua Mechanical</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>Automatic <a href=\"https://sfyl.ifas.ufl.edu/lawn-and-garden/lawn-irrigation/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">irrigation</a> systems put your mind at ease, as they can be programmed to automatically water areas of the yard with a specific amount of water. With this preprogrammed technology, you can have a watered lawn without the stress of manually watering your grass yourself.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p>Some sprinklers have a rain sensor that allows them to automatically adjust to local water levels. Automatic irrigation systems can also be adjusted by season to fulfill your lawn’s water needs.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p>Homeowners can either have an in-ground sprinkler system installed or buy an above-ground sprinkler head. In-ground irrigation systems have an underground water source. Above-ground sprinkler heads must be attached to a water source above the ground, typically a hose.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Advantages of an automatic irrigation system:</strong></p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>Saves water, time, and money</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Accurately meet your lawn’s water needs</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Ensures even distribution of water</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Automatically turns on when water levels are too low</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Watering with sprinkler systems is more eco-friendly than watering by hand with a hose</li>\n</ul>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Estimated costs:</strong> The average price of an in-ground automatic irrigation system is between <strong>$2,400 and $4,200. </strong>&nbsp;An above-ground sprinkler hose attachment costs between <strong>$9 and $36</strong>.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"faq\">FAQs About Low-Maintenance Landscaping Ideas for Tampa</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 is the most drought-tolerant grass for Tampa?</strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">With Tampa’s hot and humid weather, you want to get a drought-tolerant lawn so you don’t have to spend so much time watering the grass. Bermuadagrass consumes the least amount of water. Other good options are bahiagrass, buffalograss, and centipedegrass. <br/><br/></p> </div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">What is the best low-maintenance grass for Tampa?</strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">Warm-season grasses that can tolerate a lot of foot traffic, are disease-resistant, and drought-tolerant are the most hardy types of grasses. Low-maintenance grasses that are perfectly suited for Tampa’s climate include:<br/>• Bahiagrass<br/>• Buffalograss<br/>• Centipedegrass<br/>• Zoysiagrass<br/><br/></p> </div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">How do I make my own mulch?</strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">One of the cheapest and simplest ways to save time on landscaping maintenance is to use mulch in your landscaping. Organic mulches are inexpensive, great for the environment, and often the materials can be found around your own yard.<br/><br/>Here are some ways you can make your own mulch: <br/>• Compost. If you have a compost bin, use that compost as mulch for your plant bed.<br/>• Grass clippings. If your lawnmower has a bag, then simply use the grass clippings in the bag for mulch. Otherwise, after you mow the lawn, rake up the grass clippings across your lawn and use them for mulch.<br/>• Leaves. Rake up leaves in a pile and then run your lawnmower over the leaves several times to chop them up into mulch.<br/>• Pine needles. Pine needles can be chopped up in a wood chipper to make mulch. They are often combined with homemade wood mulch to make them extra effective.<br/>• Tree branches. Fallen or pruned branches from your tree can be used as mulch. Put the tree branches and sticks through a wood chipper to chop them up into mulch. If you don’t have a wood chipper, you can rent one.<br/><br/>Try mixing grass clippings with wood chips to create an effective mulch that is full of nutrients for your flower bed.  <br/><br/></p> </div> </div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Ready for Landscaping that Saves You Time?</h2>\n\n\n\n<p>If you’re tired of maintaining your landscaping, it’s time to redesign your Tampa yard. You can have an elegant landscape that is the envy of the neighborhood without all the effort of caring for a traditional lawn. To free up your time, hire a <a href=\"https://www.wikilawn.com/lawn-care/fl/tampa/\">local pro</a> to take care of the trimming, watering, and mowing for your lawn.</p>\n\n\n\n<p>Main Photo Credit: Robles House in Tampa, FL / <a href=\"https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Tampa_FL_Robles_House02.jpg\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Ebyabe</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","title":"8 Low-Maintenance Landscaping Ideas for Tampa, FL","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.3333333333333333,"src":"/static/4ec5536280d674d3cb80e0d93e6a7471/1789c/Tampa-FL-Robles-House.jpg","srcSet":"/static/4ec5536280d674d3cb80e0d93e6a7471/107df/Tampa-FL-Robles-House.jpg 320w,\n/static/4ec5536280d674d3cb80e0d93e6a7471/293e9/Tampa-FL-Robles-House.jpg 500w,\n/static/4ec5536280d674d3cb80e0d93e6a7471/f2cbb/Tampa-FL-Robles-House.jpg 800w,\n/static/4ec5536280d674d3cb80e0d93e6a7471/1789c/Tampa-FL-Robles-House.jpg 960w,\n/static/4ec5536280d674d3cb80e0d93e6a7471/c26c2/Tampa-FL-Robles-House.jpg 1200w","srcWebp":"/static/4ec5536280d674d3cb80e0d93e6a7471/1dd6e/Tampa-FL-Robles-House.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/4ec5536280d674d3cb80e0d93e6a7471/67b76/Tampa-FL-Robles-House.webp 320w,\n/static/4ec5536280d674d3cb80e0d93e6a7471/8df11/Tampa-FL-Robles-House.webp 500w,\n/static/4ec5536280d674d3cb80e0d93e6a7471/98a65/Tampa-FL-Robles-House.webp 800w,\n/static/4ec5536280d674d3cb80e0d93e6a7471/1dd6e/Tampa-FL-Robles-House.webp 960w,\n/static/4ec5536280d674d3cb80e0d93e6a7471/3cc96/Tampa-FL-Robles-House.webp 1200w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"8 Low-Maintenance Landscaping Ideas for Tampa, FL","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":"If you want you and your landscape to stand up to Tampa’s hot and humid weather, try these low-maintenance landscaping ideas to minimize yard work."}}},{"node":{"id":"caee7657-c627-5bbf-a0c1-69fb97a92b3f","slug":"best-native-plants-oklahoma-city","path":"/lawn-care/ok/oklahoma-city/best-native-plants-oklahoma-city/","status":"publish","template":"","format":"standard","author":{"description":"Janae Soules is a freelance writer with a newly discovered love of gardening with her kids. She enjoys spending time in nature hiking, biking, or playing sports.","name":"Janae Soules","id":"0def06f9-a4f4-58d5-891d-d423dde342f4","path":"/author/janae-souleslawnstarter-com/","avatar_urls":{"wordpress_96":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/aab1931e793481d75c080c7271be7652?s=96&d=mm&r=g"}},"categories":[{"id":"5bb57152-2e9b-5822-a133-bc84c122adab","name":"Landscaping","count":42,"path":"/category/blog/landscaping/"},{"id":"d2d6ff96-cc14-5d0f-bbfe-f7eac3bba6d9","name":"Oklahoma","count":7,"path":"/category/lawn-care/ok/"},{"id":"89161243-3980-5fa1-a6f5-daf0cebe4f02","name":"Oklahoma City","count":2,"path":"/category/lawn-care/ok/oklahoma-city/"}],"date":"April 1st, 2023","excerpt":"<p>After a visit to the Myriad Botanical Gardens, you’re inspired to have a beautiful native landscape. Whether you want to add a new pop of color or do your part for the ecosystem with native plants, we’ve got you covered with the 8 best native plants for Oklahoma City. Patience is often needed when growing [&hellip;]</p>\n","content":"\n<p>After a visit to the Myriad Botanical Gardens, you’re inspired to have a beautiful native landscape. Whether you want to add a new pop of color or do your part for the ecosystem with native plants, we’ve got you covered with the 8 best native plants for Oklahoma City.</p>\n\n\n\n<p>Patience is often needed when growing native plants from seeds, as some may take a couple of years before the beauty appears, but it is well worth it.</p>\n\n\n\n<p>In this article, we’ll cover:</p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li><strong><a href=\"#Home\">8 Best Native Plants for Your Oklahoma City Home</a></strong></li>\n</ul>\n\n\n\n<ol>\n<li><strong><a href=\"#Mallow\">Purple Poppy Mallow</a></strong></li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"#Aster\">New England Aster</a></strong></li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"#Milkweed\">Butterfly Milkweed</a></strong></li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"#Crossvine\">Crossvine</a></strong></li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"#Indigo\">Blue False Indigo</a></strong></li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"#Elderberry\">American Black Elderberry</a></strong></li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"#Primrose\">Evening Primrose</a></strong></li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"#Coneflower\">Purple Coneflower</a></strong></li>\n</ol>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li><strong><a href=\"#Landscape\">How to Choose Native Plants for Your Oklahoma City Landscape</a></strong></li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"#Plants\">FAQ About Native Oklahoma City Plants</a></strong></li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"#City\">Where to Find Native Plants in Oklahoma City</a></strong></li>\n</ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"Home\">8 Best Native Plants for Your Oklahoma City Home</h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"Mallow\">1. Purple Poppy Mallow (<em>Callirhoe involucrata)</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/2023/03/Purple-Poppy-Mallow.jpg\" alt=\"purple colored flower in a plant\" class=\"wp-image-13099\" srcset=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Purple-Poppy-Mallow.jpg 800w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Purple-Poppy-Mallow-300x200.jpg 300w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Purple-Poppy-Mallow-768x512.jpg 768w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Purple-Poppy-Mallow-600x400.jpg 600w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Purple-Poppy-Mallow-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.publicdomainpictures.net/en/view-image.php?image=252152&amp;picture=purple-poppy-mallow-wildflower\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">PublicDomainPictures</a></p>\n\n\n\n<p>Purple poppy mallow is a drought-tolerant flowering native plant. The magenta cup-shaped flowers bloom in late spring to early summer to give your garden a bright pop of color and attract butterflies and hummingbirds.</p>\n\n\n\n<p>Purple poppy mallow does not thrive in moist soil–– ensure your soil is medium to dry and well-draining to avoid rust. The flower may self-seed if the growing conditions are favorable and can be grown as a ground cover.</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Plant type: </strong>Flowering ground cover</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>Rocky, sandy, loamy, clay</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>Bloom time:</strong> Late spring to early summer</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Water needs: </strong>Medium</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Mature height: </strong>Up to 1 foot</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Maintenance: </strong>Can prune in late summer if desired</p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"Aster\">2. 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\" src=\"https://lawnlove.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/05/new-england-aster_800.jpg\" alt=\"New England Aster\" class=\"wp-image-9334\"/></figure></div>\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\"><br>Photo Credit: <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https://flic.kr/p/2hDZ2P6\" target=\"_blank\">hedera.baltica</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>New England aster is another wonderful native flower for your OKC garden if you want to attract bees and butterflies. It boasts a range of colorful flowers, including purple, blue, white, and pink.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p>The leaves on New England aster are rough and hairy. These flowers flourish well in moist soil with good air circulation.</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, partial shade</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Soil: </strong>Sandy, loamy, clay</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>Bloom time: </strong>Late summer, autumn</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>Maintenance: </strong>Medium. May require staking or other support if it grows tall. Pinch back stems before midsummer to control the plant height and produce more flowers.</p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"Milkweed\">3. 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=\"533\" src=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Butterfly-Milkweed.jpg\" alt=\"colorful butterfly milkweed flowers\" class=\"wp-image-12243\" srcset=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Butterfly-Milkweed.jpg 800w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Butterfly-Milkweed-300x200.jpg 300w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Butterfly-Milkweed-768x512.jpg 768w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Butterfly-Milkweed-600x400.jpg 600w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Butterfly-Milkweed-480x320.jpg 480w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" /></figure></div>\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\">Photo Credit:&nbsp;<a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Asclepias_tuberosa_interior.jpg\" target=\"_blank\">Eric Hunt</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>If you already have a butterfly garden or wish to have one that gets abundant sun, check out <a href=\"https://www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=astu\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">butterfly milkweed</a> for your Oklahoma City backyard. Its bright-colored orange and yellow flowers attract not only butterflies but also rabbits. Consider metal fencing around your butterfly milkweed so a monarch butterfly can enjoy it, but the rabbits cannot.</p>\n\n\n\n<p>Butterfly milkweed is low-maintenance, even in the aspect of watering–– once established, butterfly milkweed only needs occasional watering and prefers dry soil.</p>\n\n\n\n<p>The downside to butterfly milkweed is that it can have invasive qualities due to large seed pods that disperse small seeds with hairs that spread with the wind. Remove ripened seed pods if you don’t want the plant to spread.&nbsp;</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>Sweet, vanilla</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Bloom time: </strong>May to September</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 cats, dogs, livestock, and people when ingested</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Maintenance: </strong>Low</p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"Crossvine\">4. Crossvine (<em>Bignonia capreolata</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=\"654\" src=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Crossvine.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12257\" srcset=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Crossvine.jpg 800w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Crossvine-300x245.jpg 300w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Crossvine-768x628.jpg 768w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Crossvine-480x392.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:Cross_vine_%28Bignonia_capreolata%29_%2838665372192%29.jpg\" target=\"_blank\">gailhampshire</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>Crossvine is a vine with green leaves and trumpet-shaped yellow and orange flowers. If you were to look closely at the stems on crossvine, you would notice the crisscross pattern–– hence the name.</p>\n\n\n\n<p>If your landscape is part shade, you can still grow crossvine, but it won’t flower as much as in a full sun yard.</p>\n\n\n\n<p>Ensure you plant the crossvine with abundant space–– these vines can grow an impressive 30 to 50 feet high and 6 to 9 feet wide. Crossvine is often used on fences, trellises, walls, or as a ground cover. Crossvine will move across the ground if there is not a vertical structure for it to climb up.</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Plant type: </strong>Vine</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>USDA Hardiness Zone:</strong> 6 to 9</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Sun: </strong>Full sun, partial shade</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Soil: </strong>Sandy, loamy, clay</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Duration: </strong>Perennial</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Fragrance: </strong>Mocha</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Bloom time: </strong>Mid-spring to late summer</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Water needs: </strong>Low to medium</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Mature height: </strong>Climbs up to 50 feet</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Maintenance: </strong>Prune to keep the desired shape</p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"Indigo\">5. Blue False Indigo (<em>Baptisia australis</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/Baptisia-australis-Blue-False-Indigo.jpg\" alt=\"Baptisia australis - Blue False Indigo\" class=\"wp-image-12593\" srcset=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Baptisia-australis-Blue-False-Indigo.jpg 800w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Baptisia-australis-Blue-False-Indigo-300x225.jpg 300w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Baptisia-australis-Blue-False-Indigo-768x576.jpg 768w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Baptisia-australis-Blue-False-Indigo-510x382.jpg 510w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Baptisia-australis-Blue-False-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:Baptisia_australis_-_Blue_False_Indigo_2.jpg\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Fritzflohrreynolds</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>Blue false indigo is a fantastic option if you want to add some bright, beautiful color to your native garden. It is a perennial flower but can have a shrub-like appearance. As beautiful as blue false indigo may be, avoid planting it in your garden if kids or pets frequent the area–– it is mildly toxic to people and pets if ingested.</p>\n\n\n\n<p>Blue false indigo has blue-purple flowers which attract bumblebees from April to July. Keep blue false indigo planted in full sun to avoid it flopping over. Good air circulation is also needed for blue false indigo to remain happy–– without it, the plant might develop a fungal disease, such as leaf spot or rust.</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Plant type: </strong>Upright perennial</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>Loam, sad</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Duration: </strong>Perennial</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Fragrance: </strong>None</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Bloom time: </strong>April to July</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Water needs: </strong>Low, average</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Mature height: </strong>3 to 4 feet</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Potential hazards: </strong>Poisonous to cats, dogs, livestock, and people when ingested</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Maintenance: </strong>Low</p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"Elderberry\">6. American Black Elderberry (Sambucus canadensis)</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/American-Black-Elderberry.jpg\" alt=\"white flowers in a plant in a garden\" class=\"wp-image-13098\" srcset=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/American-Black-Elderberry.jpg 800w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/American-Black-Elderberry-300x225.jpg 300w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/American-Black-Elderberry-768x576.jpg 768w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/American-Black-Elderberry-510x382.jpg 510w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/American-Black-Elderberry-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:2019-05-30_11_34_09_American_black_elderberry_flowers_along_a_walking_path_in_the_Franklin_Farm_section_of_Oak_Hill,_Fairfax_County,_Virginia.jpg\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Famartin</a> / Wikimedia Commons / <a href=\"https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/deed.en\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">CC BY-SA 4.0</a></p>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https://www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=SANIC4\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">American black elderberry</a>, also known as common elderberry, is a native shrub with white flowers that bloom from May to July with dark purple fruits following the flowers in late summer. It can be grown in a location with either full sun or partial shade and moist soil with good air circulation.</p>\n\n\n\n<p>American black elderberry fruit is edible and full of antioxidants–– it can be used for jellies or wines, but it needs to be cooked, dried, or fermented before consuming.</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Plant type: </strong>Shrub</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>USDA Hardiness Zone: </strong>4 to 10</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Sun: </strong>Full sun, part shade</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Soil: </strong>Tolerates a wide variety of wet to dry soils but prefers rich, moist, slightly acid soil</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Duration: </strong>Perennial</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Fragrance: </strong>Sweet</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Bloom time: </strong>May to July</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Water needs: </strong>Medium</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Mature height: </strong>5 to 8 feet</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Potential hazards: </strong>Raw elderberries are toxic and should not be consumed</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Maintenance: </strong>Regular pruning to remove suckers from the base of plant</p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"Primrose\">7. Evening Primrose (<em>Oenothera biennis</em>)</h3>\n\n\n\n<p></p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-large is-resized\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https://www.lawnstarter.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/04/evening-primrose-1458681_1920_800-646x440.jpg\" alt=\"Evening Primrose\" class=\"wp-image-46012\" width=\"800\"/></figure></div>\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\">Photo Credit: <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https://pixabay.com/de/photos/nachtkerze-pflanze-blume-natur-1458681/\" target=\"_blank\">Pixabay</a></p>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https://www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=OEBI\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Evening primrose</a> is a beautiful plant with four-petaled yellow flowers and a leafy stem. It is often viewed as an invasive weed because of its self-spreading seeds, but it can be a wonderful addition to your native garden with minimal work.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p>Evening primrose needs full sun (even though the flowers open at night), well-draining soil, and snipping of expired blooms to reduce the self-spreading of the seeds. During especially hot OKC summers, you may need to give your evening primrose some additional water.</p>\n\n\n\n<p>Holistic properties have been associated with evening primrose, which is why it’s also known as the cure-all plant.</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Plant type: </strong>Herbaceous</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>USDA Hardiness Zone: </strong>4 &#8211; 9</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Sun: </strong>Full sun to partial shade</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Soil: </strong>Sandy, gravelly, medium moisture, well-drained soil.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Duration: </strong>Biennial</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Fragrance: </strong>Mild lemon</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Bloom time: </strong>Early summer to 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 5 feet tall, 2 to 3 feet wide</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Maintenance: </strong>Snip expired blooms</p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"coneflower\">8. Purple Coneflower (<em>Echinacea purpurea)</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=\"688\" src=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Purple-Coneflower.jpg\" alt=\"Purple Coneflower\" class=\"wp-image-13075\" srcset=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Purple-Coneflower.jpg 800w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Purple-Coneflower-300x258.jpg 300w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Purple-Coneflower-768x660.jpg 768w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Purple-Coneflower-480x413.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/User:PumpkinSky\" target=\"_blank\">PumpkinSky</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>Purple coneflower is a common yet beautiful flower with its long-blooming, daisy-like purple flowers and a brown-colored center. It’s low maintenance but needs full sun to achieve the best blooms. A landscape with part shade can still have purple coneflower. However, they could eventually flop over.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p>While you admire this showy wildflower, hummingbirds, bees, butterflies, and finches will also enjoy the purple coneflower.</p>\n\n\n\n<p>An overly wet soil does not suit a purple coneflower well–– ensure to only give the plant one inch of water per week during its first growing season and only water during droughts thereafter. Fertilizers shouldn’t be used for purple coneflowers because it can cause the plant to become laggy– instead, opt for compost to provide nutrients.</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</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>Maintenance: </strong>Low</p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"Landscape\">How to Choose Native Plants for Your Oklahoma City Landscape</h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Before you choose native Oklahoma plants for your OKC landscape, evaluate your space — you wouldn’t want a massive native tree if you have a small space. Consider whether you want drought-resistant plants, how much maintenance you wish to perform, and how much shade your property receives.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p>OKC is in <a href=\"https://planthardiness.ars.usda.gov/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">USDA hardiness zone</a> 7, so ensure any other plants (native or non-native) that catch your eye fall into the correct hardiness for OKC.</p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"Plants\">FAQ About Best Native Plants for Oklahoma City</h2>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"schema-faq wp-block-yoast-faq-block\"><div class=\"schema-faq-section\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">Does this article include poisonous plants?</strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">This article covers several plants that are poisonous when ingested, including blue false indigo, butterfly milkweed, and the raw berries of American black elderberry. If your kids play close by and have curious hands, you may want to avoid growing these native plants.<br/> <br/> </p> </div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">What’s the best time to plant native plants in Oklahoma City?</strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">OKC can see frost through March or April. Most native plants have the best chance of survival if they are planted after the last frost has occurred.<br/> <br/> </p> </div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">What makes native plants desirable?</strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">Native plants require less watering, less use of fertilizers, and less use of pesticides. This is great not only for gardeners but for the environment. Pollinators such as bees and butterflies will also be attracted to many native plants.<br/> <br/> </p> </div> </div>\n\n\n\n<p></p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"City\">Where to Find Native Plants in Oklahoma City</h2>\n\n\n\n<p>The best view is sometimes off the beaten path––&nbsp; take the scenic route during springtime, and you’re bound to see flower-lined roads with native wildflowers. Bricktown, Turner Falls, and Medicine Park all boast colorful wonders of Oklahoma’s native plants. In addition to seeing native plants along the roadways, you might also spot native plants or purchase native plants at the following locations:</p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"https://eliawoods.com/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Lia’s Garden at Commonwealth</a></li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https://www.nativeplantsokc.com/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Native Plants Nursery</a></li>\n</ul>\n\n\n\n<p>If you want your landscape to include more than just native plants, the <a href=\"https://www.wikilawn.com/lawn-care/ok/oklahoma-city/best-grass-types-oklahoma-city/\">best grass types</a> for Oklahoma City can help complete your picturesque backyard oasis. Connect with a <a href=\"https://www.wikilawn.com/lawn-care/ok/oklahoma-city/\">local lawn care pro</a> to upkeep your landscape with lawn mowing, edging, and trimming.</p>\n\n\n\n<p>Main Image Credit: <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https://www.flickr.com/photos/37213589@N08/52069012828\" target=\"_blank\">Bill Wilson</a> / Flickr / <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0/\" target=\"_blank\">CC BY 2.0</a></p>\n","title":"8 Best Native Plants for Oklahoma City","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.5,"src":"/static/04d68339f020731a0ef0fb829d03419b/1789c/Lawn-in-Oklahoma-City.jpg","srcSet":"/static/04d68339f020731a0ef0fb829d03419b/107df/Lawn-in-Oklahoma-City.jpg 320w,\n/static/04d68339f020731a0ef0fb829d03419b/293e9/Lawn-in-Oklahoma-City.jpg 500w,\n/static/04d68339f020731a0ef0fb829d03419b/f2cbb/Lawn-in-Oklahoma-City.jpg 800w,\n/static/04d68339f020731a0ef0fb829d03419b/1789c/Lawn-in-Oklahoma-City.jpg 960w,\n/static/04d68339f020731a0ef0fb829d03419b/c26c2/Lawn-in-Oklahoma-City.jpg 1200w","srcWebp":"/static/04d68339f020731a0ef0fb829d03419b/1dd6e/Lawn-in-Oklahoma-City.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/04d68339f020731a0ef0fb829d03419b/67b76/Lawn-in-Oklahoma-City.webp 320w,\n/static/04d68339f020731a0ef0fb829d03419b/8df11/Lawn-in-Oklahoma-City.webp 500w,\n/static/04d68339f020731a0ef0fb829d03419b/98a65/Lawn-in-Oklahoma-City.webp 800w,\n/static/04d68339f020731a0ef0fb829d03419b/1dd6e/Lawn-in-Oklahoma-City.webp 960w,\n/static/04d68339f020731a0ef0fb829d03419b/3cc96/Lawn-in-Oklahoma-City.webp 1200w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"8 Best Native Plants for Oklahoma City | Wikilawn","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":"Oklahoma City native plants must tolerate heat, cold, and everything in between. Check out these 8 native plants that grow well in the area."}}},{"node":{"id":"74fdcb3d-908c-5838-a639-4fb8832d0297","slug":"best-native-plants-colorado-springs","path":"/lawn-care/co/colorado-springs/best-native-plants-colorado-springs/","status":"publish","template":"","format":"standard","author":{"description":"Austin Geiger is an avid reader and writer. He has loved to read and write from a young age, and does both daily. His favorite subjects are fantasy and comedy, and he despises run-on sentences.","name":"Austin Geiger","id":"69bc552e-2c03-5c38-acc7-562e86f2a201","path":"/author/austin-geiger/","avatar_urls":{"wordpress_96":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/5baab15ab5786cfd4d2372bb580f441c?s=96&d=mm&r=g"}},"categories":[{"id":"be8bb3a1-b40c-57ba-87f7-ff69490271a0","name":"Colorado","count":8,"path":"/category/lawn-care/co/"},{"id":"253dba4d-dac0-5b2a-b00c-9b16e649ac14","name":"Colorado Springs","count":2,"path":"/category/lawn-care/co/colorado-springs/"},{"id":"5bb57152-2e9b-5822-a133-bc84c122adab","name":"Landscaping","count":42,"path":"/category/blog/landscaping/"}],"date":"April 1st, 2023","excerpt":"<p>Native plants are an important part of the local ecosystem. They’re a great benefit to pollinators and thrive in the conditions you’ll find right in your own backyard and areas like Pikes Peak. If you’re looking for new flora to fill your outdoor space with, there are no better candidates than the ones that call [&hellip;]</p>\n","content":"\n<p>Native plants are an important part of the local ecosystem. They’re a great benefit to pollinators and thrive in the conditions you’ll find right in your own backyard and areas like Pikes Peak. If you’re looking for new flora to fill your outdoor space with, there are no better candidates than the ones that call your state home, including these 8 native plants for Colorado Springs.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li><strong><a href=\"#Yard\">8 Best Native Plants for Your Colorado Springs Yard</a></strong>\n<ul>\n<li><strong><a href=\"#Dogwood\">1. Red Twig Dogwood</a></strong></li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"#Rabbitbush\">2. Rubber Rabbitbush</a></strong></li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"#Mahonia\">3. Creeping Mahonia</a></strong></li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"#Cactus\">4. Eastern Prickly Pear Cactus</a></strong></li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"#Susan\">5. Black-Eyed Susan</a></strong></li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"#Columbine\">6. Colorado Blue Columbine</a></strong></li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"#Spruce\">7. Colorado Blue Spruce</a></strong></li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"#Pine\">8. Ponderosa Pine</a></strong></li>\n</ul>\n</li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"#Landscape\">How to Choose Native Plants for Your Colorado Springs Landscape</a></strong></li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"#faq\">FAQ About Native Plants</a></strong></li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"#Springs\">Where to Find Native Plants in Colorado Springs</a></strong></li>\n</ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"Yard\">8 Native Plants for Your Colorado Springs Yard</h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"Dogwood\">1. Red Twig Dogwood (<em>Cornus sericea</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\" src=\"https://www.lawnstarter.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/39770128425_b31bd4bee4_k-1-1.jpg\" alt=\"red dogwood\" class=\"wp-image-67818\"/></figure></div>\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\">Photo Credit: <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https://www.flickr.com/photos/33671002@N00/39770128425\" target=\"_blank\">David Prasad</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>Red twig dogwood is a deciduous flowering shrub native to Colorado. Its name comes from its distinctive red branches. This shrub likes a lot of sun and water, so make sure it gets plenty of light and give it supplemental water if you don’t get a lot of rainfall. It makes a great border plant for either paths or the landscape itself and prefers low elevations.</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Plat type:</strong> Flowering shrub</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> Moist yet well-drained, slightly acidic soil</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Duration:</strong> Deciduous</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Fragrance:</strong> Floral</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Bloom Time:</strong> Late spring to early summer</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Water Needs:</strong> Moderate to high</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Mature Height:</strong> 6 to 9 feet</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Maintenance Needs:</strong> Low</p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"Rabbitbrush\">2. Rubber Rabbitbrush (<em>Ericameria nauseosa</em>)</h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Rubber rabbitbrush is a drought-tolerant deciduous native shrub with tubular yellow flowers that bloom from late summer to autumn and that pollinators love, hummingbirds in particular. Its name comes from the scent its leaves have when crushed, which some have described as rubbery.</p>\n\n\n\n<p>If you want to grow rubber rabbitbrush in your Colorado Springs landscape, it makes a great border hedge for your backyard or an ornamental plant by itself. It is mildly toxic, so make sure to keep pets and small children away.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Plant type: </strong>Flowering shrub</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 clay, sandy, or loam soil</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Duration:</strong> Deciduous</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Fragrance:</strong> Described as pineapples by some and rubber by others</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Bloom Time:</strong> Late summer to autumn</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Water Needs:</strong> Low</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Mature Height:</strong> 4 to 7 feet</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Potential Hazards:</strong> Do not consume. Slightly toxic to livestock.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Maintenance Needs:</strong> Low</p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"Mahonia\">3. Creeping Mahonia (<em>Mahonia repens</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\" src=\"https://www.lawnstarter.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/46305790921_55d5e82fc2_k-1.jpg\" alt=\"mahonia repens\" class=\"wp-image-67816\"/></figure></div>\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\">Photo Credit: <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https://www.flickr.com/photos/plant_diversity/46305790921\" target=\"_blank\">Matt Lavin</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>Creeping mahonia is a Colorado native evergreen shrub and a great low-maintenance choice for your backyard. Its beautiful yellow flowers bloom in spring and grow edible berries that can be made into a delicious sour jelly. It can tolerate some shade and grows in a variety of soil types and pH balances, making it a good hardy plant that can grow where others can’t.</p>\n\n\n\n<p>In the winter, creeping mahonia’s green leaves turn from their usual color to a striking red hue that can vary from mauve to rose. It’s a great ornamental plant for garden beds or containers and can be used as a ground cover.</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Plant type: </strong>Evergreen shrub</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>USDA Hardiness Zone:</strong> 5 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> Prefers a moist yet well-drained chalk, loam, or sandy soil with an acidic or neutral pH balance</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Duration:</strong> Evergreen</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Fragrance:</strong> Sweet</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Bloom Time:</strong> Late spring to summer</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Water Needs:</strong> Moderate</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Mature Height:</strong> 1 to 2 feet</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Maintenance Needs:</strong> Low</p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"Cactus\">4. Eastern Prickly Pear Cactus (<em>Opuntia humifusa</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\" src=\"https://www.lawnstarter.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/Opuntia.compressa.7689.jpg\" alt=\"Opuntia.compressa\" class=\"wp-image-67815\"/></figure></div>\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\">Photo Credit: <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Opuntia.compressa.7689.jpg\" target=\"_blank\">Olaf Leillinger</a> / Wikimedia Commons / <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/2.5/deed.en\" target=\"_blank\">CC BY-SA 2.5</a></p>\n\n\n\n<p>If you don’t mind a few sharp needles, the prickly pear cactus is a great addition to a Colorado Springs landscape. Like most cacti, it loves the sun and doesn’t need a lot of water. The flowers it grows in the summer are beautiful and attract many pollinators, bees in particular.</p>\n\n\n\n<p>Prickly pear makes a great ornamental plant, either in a bed or individually. As cacti, they’re wonderful for xeriscaping, but can still fit right in no matter what kind of landscape you have. Just make sure not to walk barefoot around them.</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Plant type: </strong>Cactus</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 loam or sandy soil</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Duration:</strong> Perennial</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Fragrance:</strong> Sweet</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Bloom Time:</strong> Late spring to summer</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Water Needs: </strong>Low</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Mature Height:</strong> 0.5 to 1 feet</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Potential Hazards:</strong> The plant’s spines can cause irritation, pain, or infection if they splinter and lodge in the skin.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Maintenance Needs:</strong> Low</p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"Susan\">5. 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=\"450\" src=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/black-eyed-susan-1.jpg\" alt=\"close up of beautiful black-eyed susan\" class=\"wp-image-12332\" srcset=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/black-eyed-susan-1.jpg 800w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/black-eyed-susan-1-300x169.jpg 300w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/black-eyed-susan-1-768x432.jpg 768w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/black-eyed-susan-1-480x270.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://pixabay.com/de/photos/schwarz%c3%a4ugige-susanne-856460/\" target=\"_blank\">Pixabay</a></p>\n\n\n\n<p>Black-eyed Susan is one of the most common wildflowers in the United States. It has moderate water needs but won’t need too much extra once it’s established, and it does best in an area with full sunlight. It grows well in acidic soil and can tolerate many soil types, making it a hardy, low-maintenance plant that’s good for areas of your landscape that can’t support other blooms.</p>\n\n\n\n<p>If you grow black-eyed Susan, keep in mind that it can spread, so you’ll need to take precautions to keep it away from your other plants. Planting them in a container will keep them isolated. If you plant them in a bed, separating clumps every few years should keep them from encroaching on other flowers. You can also deadhead them to keep them from reseeding.</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, though this can vary by species</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Sun:</strong> Full Sun</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Soil:</strong> Prefers a moist yet well-drained clay, sandy, or loam soil with an acidic pH balance</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Duration:</strong> Biennial/short-lived perennial</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Fragrance:</strong> Sweet</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Bloom Time:</strong> Summer to August</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Water Needs:</strong> Moderate</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Mature Height:</strong> 1 to 3 feet</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Maintenance Needs:</strong> Low</p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"Columbine\">6. Colorado Blue Columbine (<em>Aquilegia coerulea</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/Colorado-Blue-Columbine.jpg\" alt=\"blue colored flowers in a garden\" class=\"wp-image-13133\" srcset=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Colorado-Blue-Columbine.jpg 800w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Colorado-Blue-Columbine-300x225.jpg 300w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Colorado-Blue-Columbine-768x576.jpg 768w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Colorado-Blue-Columbine-510x382.jpg 510w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Colorado-Blue-Columbine-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/127605180@N04/23193233013\" target=\"_blank\">Jim Morefield</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>If you’re looking for native plants for a Colorado Springs landscape, there’s no better candidate than Colorado’s state flower. Colorado blue columbine, also known as the Rocky Mountain Columbine, is a perennial wildflower with star-shaped purple and white flowers that appear in late spring and early summer. It can tolerate some shade and has moderate water needs.</p>\n\n\n\n<p>Blue columbine prefers a well-drained soil that still has some moisture. It’s a great ornamental plant for a container, a flower bed, or bordering a path. This plant is poisonous, but not dangerously so, and is ignored by common garden pests such as rabbits and deer.</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 to partial shade</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Soil:</strong> Moist yet well-drained&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Duration:</strong> Perennial</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Fragrance:</strong> Sweet</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Bloom Time:</strong> Late spring to early summer</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Water Needs:</strong> Moderate</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Mature Height:</strong> 1 to 2 feet</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Potential Hazards:</strong> Slightly poisonous. Do not consume.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Maintenance Needs:</strong> Low</p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"Spruce\">7. Colorado Blue Spruce (<em>Picea pungens</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=\"591\" src=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Colorado-Blue-Spruce.jpg\" alt=\"closeup image of colorado blue spruce\" class=\"wp-image-13132\" srcset=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Colorado-Blue-Spruce.jpg 800w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Colorado-Blue-Spruce-300x222.jpg 300w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Colorado-Blue-Spruce-768x567.jpg 768w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Colorado-Blue-Spruce-480x355.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/jsjgeology/25552748468\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">James St. John</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 blue spruce is Colorado’s state tree, making it the perfect choice for a tree for your landscape. It’s an evergreen that prefers full sun, requires a moderate amount of water, and likes a well-drained soil. Its season of interest ranges from late summer to early fall.</p>\n\n\n\n<p>Blue spruce is best used as a centerpiece for your landscaping. At 30 to 60 feet fully grown, it tends to dominate the space, so an open area is best whether you put it in your front or back yard. If you need to prune it, do so carefully to avoid harmful stress on the tree.</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Plant type: </strong>Tree</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>USDA Hardiness Zone:</strong> 2 to 8</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Sun:</strong> Full sun</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Soil:</strong> Moist yet well-drained clay, loam, or sandy soil with an acidic or neutral pH balance</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Duration:</strong> Evergreen</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Fragrance:</strong> Pine</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Season of Interest:</strong> Late summer to early fall</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Water Needs:</strong> Moderate</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Mature Height:</strong> 30 to 60 feet</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Potential Hazards:</strong> Pollen can set off allergies</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Maintenance Needs:</strong> Low</p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"Pine\">8. Ponderosa Pine (<em>Pinus ponderosa</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=\"532\" src=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Ponderosa-Pine.jpg\" alt=\"closeup image of ponderosa pins\" class=\"wp-image-13131\" srcset=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Ponderosa-Pine.jpg 800w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Ponderosa-Pine-300x200.jpg 300w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Ponderosa-Pine-768x511.jpg 768w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Ponderosa-Pine-600x400.jpg 600w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Ponderosa-Pine-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/jsjgeology/25571166908\" target=\"_blank\">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\n\n\n<p>Ponderosa pine is another Colorado native tree, one that can live for hundreds of years. It’s an evergreen that stays lush and beautiful year-round, and grows even bigger than a blue spruce. Ponderosa pine prefers full sun and has moderate water needs, but it is still a low-maintenance tree that can make a great addition to a Colorado garden.</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Plant type: </strong>Tree</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>USDA Hardiness Zone:</strong> 3 to 7</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Sun:</strong> Full Sun</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Soil:</strong> Well-drained soil</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Duration:</strong> Evergreen</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Fragrance:</strong> Pine</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Season of Interest:</strong> Year-round</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Water Needs:</strong> Moderate</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Mature Height:</strong> 60 to 100 feet</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Potential Hazards:</strong> Pine nuts and pollen can set off allergies</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Maintenance Needs:</strong> Low</p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"Landscape\">How to Choose Native Plants for Your Colorado Springs Landscape</h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Although native plants will thrive in their local habitat, they still have their individual preferred growing conditions. Before planting anything, make sure you understand your outdoor space’s soil, sun, and precipitation so that you can pick the plants that will do the best in it.</p>\n\n\n\n<p>Colorado Springs lies in USDA hardiness zone 5, which means that its lowest temperatures can reach between negative 20 and negative 10 degrees Fahrenheit. Many native plants can tolerate this zone comfortably, but some other native plants may not do as well in these temperatures.</p>\n\n\n\n<p>Keep in mind that some plants may also be native to only certain parts of the state, in which case they may have a harder time than you would expect. For example, a flower that’s native to areas like Denver or Aspen may not be native to your Colorado Springs garden.</p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"faq\">FAQ About Native 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\">Are all native plants low maintenance?</strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">It varies depending on the exact plant, but generally, yes, native plants require much less maintenance than non-native ones since they’re already in their natural habitat.<br/> <br/> </p> </div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">Can a native plant become invasive?</strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">Unfortunately, yes. Under the right conditions, even a native plant can become invasive and push out the other flora in your garden. The smooth sumac is a good example of this, as even though it’s a Colorado native, it can take over your landscape if you don’t control it properly.<br/> <br/> </p> </div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">When should I plant native plants in Colorado Springs?</strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">It depends on the plant. Different flowers and trees will have ideal planting seasons. Do some research to find out what time of year is best for planting the native plants you have in mind.<br/> <br/> </p> </div> </div>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Where to Find Native Plants in Colorado Springs</h3>\n\n\n\n<p>If you need ideas for native plants to put in your Colorado Springs property, there’s no better place to look than its natural areas. Take a hike through areas like the Garden of the Gods park and make note of good-looking flora that you’d like in your outdoor space.</p>\n\n\n\n<p>However, in order to make sure your plants are sourced ethically and so as to not disrupt a sensitive ecosystem, never take them directly from the wild. The <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https://conps.org/\" target=\"_blank\">Colorado Native Plant Society</a> recommends <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https://conps.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/CoNPS-Native-Plant-Vendors-12.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">several retailers</a> you can purchase native plants from.<br></p>\n\n\n\n<p>To give your native plants the admiration they deserve, surround them with a landscape that’s well maintained and in tip-top shape. Hand your yard maintenance chores over to a <a href=\"https://www.wikilawn.com/lawn-care/co/colorado-springs/\">local lawn care professional</a> who can mow the turfgrass, edge the lawn, and trim the hedges.</p>\n\n\n\n<p>Main Image Credit: Monarda menthifolia (horse mint) (Colorado Springs, Colorado, USA) / <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https://www.flickr.com/photos/jsjgeology/49189211366\" target=\"_blank\">James St. John</a> / Flickr / <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0/\" target=\"_blank\">CC BY 2.0</a></p>\n","title":"8 Best Native Plants for Colorado Springs","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.3407821229050279,"src":"/static/5f9a0917a2008b0dddfa72c7eabdfb38/1789c/Native-Plants-Colorado-Spings.jpg","srcSet":"/static/5f9a0917a2008b0dddfa72c7eabdfb38/107df/Native-Plants-Colorado-Spings.jpg 320w,\n/static/5f9a0917a2008b0dddfa72c7eabdfb38/293e9/Native-Plants-Colorado-Spings.jpg 500w,\n/static/5f9a0917a2008b0dddfa72c7eabdfb38/f2cbb/Native-Plants-Colorado-Spings.jpg 800w,\n/static/5f9a0917a2008b0dddfa72c7eabdfb38/1789c/Native-Plants-Colorado-Spings.jpg 960w,\n/static/5f9a0917a2008b0dddfa72c7eabdfb38/c26c2/Native-Plants-Colorado-Spings.jpg 1200w","srcWebp":"/static/5f9a0917a2008b0dddfa72c7eabdfb38/1dd6e/Native-Plants-Colorado-Spings.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/5f9a0917a2008b0dddfa72c7eabdfb38/67b76/Native-Plants-Colorado-Spings.webp 320w,\n/static/5f9a0917a2008b0dddfa72c7eabdfb38/8df11/Native-Plants-Colorado-Spings.webp 500w,\n/static/5f9a0917a2008b0dddfa72c7eabdfb38/98a65/Native-Plants-Colorado-Spings.webp 800w,\n/static/5f9a0917a2008b0dddfa72c7eabdfb38/1dd6e/Native-Plants-Colorado-Spings.webp 960w,\n/static/5f9a0917a2008b0dddfa72c7eabdfb38/3cc96/Native-Plants-Colorado-Spings.webp 1200w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"8 Best Native Plants for Colorado Springs | Wikilawn","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":"Choosing the right native plants can be tough. Read this guide to help you pick out some for your Colorado Springs property."}}},{"node":{"id":"bc6f4b80-29c4-5bfd-8d5a-484243599b65","slug":"best-native-plants-louisville","path":"/lawn-care/ky/louisville/best-native-plants-louisville/","status":"publish","template":"","format":"standard","author":{"description":"Rela Catucod, a journalism graduate, nurtured her love for gardening while admiring her grandmother's vibrant orchids. When she's not writing about lawn care, Rela indulges in reading, traveling, and playing with her two dogs.","name":"Rela Catucod","id":"14e95666-6df4-5827-8d17-081d01b8ce99","path":"/author/rela-catucod/","avatar_urls":{"wordpress_96":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/c4741d869f47268640f525e2135c701c?s=96&d=mm&r=g"}},"categories":[{"id":"bf9d3d3b-daa0-503e-afcb-a4dbbfdca111","name":"Kentucky","count":5,"path":"/category/lawn-care/ky/"},{"id":"5bb57152-2e9b-5822-a133-bc84c122adab","name":"Landscaping","count":42,"path":"/category/blog/landscaping/"},{"id":"375b515d-eb5e-5e24-b5e8-f6cd7d6c2e83","name":"Louisville","count":3,"path":"/category/lawn-care/ky/louisville/"}],"date":"April 1st, 2023","excerpt":"<p>Louisville, famous for the Kentucky Derby and Kentucky Fried Chicken, is home to many native plants as well. The city’s hot, humid summers and mild to cool winters, along with the fertile soil of the Ohio River Valley, create a perfect environment for these plants to thrive. This combination makes Derby City a wonderful place [&hellip;]</p>\n","content":"\n<p>Louisville, famous for the Kentucky Derby and Kentucky Fried Chicken, is home to many native plants as well. The city’s hot, humid summers and mild to cool winters, along with the fertile soil of the Ohio River Valley, create a perfect environment for these plants to thrive. This combination makes Derby City a wonderful place to enjoy the beauty of the best native plants in Louisville.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p>Growing native plants in Louisville offers numerous benefits, including:</p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>Improved soil health and reduced erosion</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Enhanced habitat for local wildlife&nbsp;</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Increased biodiversity and ecosystem stability</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Low-maintenance landscaping options</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Greater resilience to pests and diseases</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Adaptability to local weather conditions</li>\n</ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Choosing Kentucky native plants lets you have a biodiverse, balanced ecosystem right in your backyard. If you’re interested in embracing native plants, here are 9 options for your Louisville garden.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p>In this article, we’ll cover:</p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"#native\">9 Native Plants for Your Louisville Yard</a>\n<ol>\n<li><a href=\"#honeysuckle\">Trumpet Honeysuckle</a></li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"#cardinal\">Cardinal Flower</a></li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"#redbud\">Eastern Redbud</a></li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"#coneflower\">Purple Coneflower</a></li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"#spicebush\">Northern Spicebush</a></li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"#milkweed\">Swamp Milkweed</a></li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"#geranium\">Spotted Geranium</a></li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"#hydrangea\">Wild Hydrangea</a></li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"#fern\">Sensitive Fern</a></li>\n</ol>\n</li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"#choose\">How to Choose Native Plants for Your Louisville Landscape</a></li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"#faq\">FAQ About Native Louisville Plants</a></li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"#find\">Where to Find Native Plants in Louisville</a></li>\n</ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"native\">9 Native Plants for Your Louisville Yard</h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"honeysuckle\">1. Trumpet Honeysuckle (<em>Lonicera sempervirens</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/2023/03/Trumpet-Honeysuckle.jpg\" alt=\"Trumpet Honeysuckle\" class=\"wp-image-13079\" srcset=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Trumpet-Honeysuckle.jpg 800w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Trumpet-Honeysuckle-300x200.jpg 300w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Trumpet-Honeysuckle-768x513.jpg 768w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Trumpet-Honeysuckle-600x400.jpg 600w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Trumpet-Honeysuckle-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.wallpaperflare.com/coral-honeysuckle-also-known-as-trumpet-honeysuckle-with-red-flowers-growing-in-a-pot-in-a-backyard-garden-the-native-hummingbird-pollinated-vine-is-much-less-common-than-the-invasive-japanese-honeysuckle-which-have-yellow-to-white-flowers-wallpaper-aajks\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Wallpaperflare</a></p>\n\n\n\n<p></p>\n\n\n\n<p>Trumpet Honeysuckle is a versatile, native, semi-evergreen to deciduous vine featuring showy, trumpet-shaped flowers that bloom from March to June. This native plant is a favorite among hummingbirds, bees, and butterflies, making it an excellent choice for a wildlife-friendly garden. Trumpet Honeysuckle is a low-maintenance option that tolerates various soil types and is resistant to pests and diseases.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Plant type:</strong> Vine</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>USDA hardiness zone: </strong>4 to 9</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Duration: </strong>Perennial</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Foliage: </strong>Deciduous to semi-evergreen</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>Prefers moist soil. Clay, sandy, loam, slightly acidic, well-drained</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Water needs:</strong> Medium</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Mature size: </strong>10 to 15 feet long</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Potential hazards:</strong> Non-toxic; no safety hazards</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Maintenance: </strong>Trim after blooming to maintain its shape and manage growth. Remove any new growth and damaged buds to keep it healthy, and wash off aphids that appear in spring.</p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"cardinal\">2. Cardinal Flower (<em>Lobelia</em> <em>cardinalis</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/Cardinal-Flower.jpg\" alt=\"Cardinal Flower\" class=\"wp-image-13072\" srcset=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Cardinal-Flower.jpg 800w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Cardinal-Flower-300x225.jpg 300w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Cardinal-Flower-768x576.jpg 768w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Cardinal-Flower-510x382.jpg 510w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Cardinal-Flower-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:Cardinal_flower_Lobelia_cardinalis_027.JPG\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">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></p>\n\n\n\n<p>Cardinal Flower, a captivating perennial, showcases tall spikes adorned with beautiful red flowers from midsummer to early fall. With its unique long tubular flowers, most insects struggle to access its nectar, making hummingbirds the primary pollinator for this stunning plant. Its common name is inspired by the vivid red robes worn by Roman Catholic cardinals.&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 9</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Duration:</strong> Perennial</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Sunlight needs: </strong>Full sun, partial shade, full shade</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Soil preferences: </strong>Moist to wet, humus-rich soil. Sandy, loam, clay, limestone-based</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Water needs: </strong>Medium to high</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Mature size:</strong><strong><em> </em></strong>1 to 6 feet tall</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Potential hazards: </strong>Toxic to humans and animals if ingested in large quantities.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Maintenance: </strong>Keep the soil moist or wet at all times for the plant to thrive.</p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"redbud\">3. Eastern Redbud (<em>Cercis 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/2023/03/Eastern-Redbud.jpg\" alt=\"Eastern Redbud plant in a lawn\" class=\"wp-image-13073\" srcset=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Eastern-Redbud.jpg 800w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Eastern-Redbud-300x225.jpg 300w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Eastern-Redbud-768x576.jpg 768w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Eastern-Redbud-510x382.jpg 510w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Eastern-Redbud-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:2021-04-18_10_39_46_Eastern_Redbud_blooming_along_Indale_Court_in_the_Franklin_Farm_section_of_Oak_Hill,_Fairfax_County,_Virginia.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>Eastern Redbud is a small deciduous tree with a short trunk, heart-shaped leaves, and showy pink flowers that bloom in early spring. This native tree attracts pollinators, such as hummingbirds and butterflies, and provides nesting sites for birds. Eastern Redbud is adaptable to various soil types and is relatively low-maintenance.</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Plant type: </strong>Tree</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>USDA hardiness zone: </strong>4 to 9</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>Sunlight needs: </strong>Full sun or partial shade</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Soil preferences: </strong>Moist, fertile, well-drained soils</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Water needs: </strong>Low</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Mature size: </strong>15 to 30 feet tall with a 25 to 35 foot spread</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Potential hazards:</strong> Contains a toxic saponin, but is not typically considered toxic as ingestion generally does not cause harmful effects.</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Maintenance: </strong>A weekly deep watering is beneficial during prolonged periods of heat and drought. It’s also advisable to fertilize the tree in early spring.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"coneflower\">4. Purple Coneflower (<em>Echinacea </em>Moench)</h3>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"800\" height=\"688\" src=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Purple-Coneflower.jpg\" alt=\"Purple Coneflower\" class=\"wp-image-13075\" srcset=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Purple-Coneflower.jpg 800w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Purple-Coneflower-300x258.jpg 300w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Purple-Coneflower-768x660.jpg 768w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Purple-Coneflower-480x413.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:Purple_Coneflower_NBG_LR.jpg\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">PumpkinSky</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><a href=\"https://www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=ECPU\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Purple Coneflower</a> is a perennial wildflower native to the Louisville area. It’s known for its vibrant, daisy-like blooms, and hardy, low-maintenance nature. This popular plant has large, purple-pink petals, which would give a touch of color to your garden. In addition to its striking appearance, this native plant also attracts butterflies, hummingbirds, and native bees.&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>Duration: </strong>Perennial</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Foliage: </strong>Deciduous</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</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Water needs: </strong>Medium</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Mature size: </strong>2 to 5 feet tall</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Potential hazards: </strong>Non-toxic; no safety hazards</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Maintenance: </strong>Low</p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"spicebush\">5. Northern Spicebush (<em>Lindera benzoin</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/Northern-Spicebush.jpg\" alt=\"Northern Spicebush\" class=\"wp-image-13074\" srcset=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Northern-Spicebush.jpg 800w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Northern-Spicebush-300x225.jpg 300w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Northern-Spicebush-768x576.jpg 768w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Northern-Spicebush-510x382.jpg 510w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Northern-Spicebush-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:Lindera_benzoin_01471.jpg\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">R. A. Nonenmacher</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>Northern Spicebush is a deciduous shrub with fragrant greenish-yellow flowers in early spring and bright golden yellow foliage in the fall. It is adaptable to various soil types and moisture levels.</p>\n\n\n\n<p>Moreover, the Eastern Tiger Swallowtail and Spicebush Swallowtail butterflies use this plant as a larval host, providing a crucial habitat for their caterpillars to thrive. A tea can also be made from its leaves and twigs, and its fruit, once dried and powdered, can be used as a spice.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Plant type: </strong>Shrub</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>USDA hardiness zone: </strong>5 to 9</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>Sunlight needs:</strong> Full sun to partial shade</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Soil preferences: </strong>Moist, well-drained soils. Sandy, loamy, limestone-based</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Water needs:</strong> Medium</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Mature size:</strong> 8 to 15 feet tall</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Potential hazards: </strong>Non-toxic; no safety hazards</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Maintenance: </strong>Keep the soil moist and fertilize it twice a year&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"milkweed\">6. 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=\"800\" height=\"600\" src=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Swamp-Milkweed.jpg\" alt=\"Swamp Milkweed\" class=\"wp-image-13078\" srcset=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Swamp-Milkweed.jpg 800w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Swamp-Milkweed-300x225.jpg 300w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Swamp-Milkweed-768x576.jpg 768w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Swamp-Milkweed-510x382.jpg 510w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Swamp-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://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Asclepias_incarnata_-_Swamp_Milkweed.jpg\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Fritzflohrreynolds</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><a href=\"https://www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=ASIN\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Swamp milkweed</a> is a perennial with clusters of rose-purple flowers that bloom from June to October. This native plant is an essential host for queen and monarch butterfly larvae and attracts other pollinators, such as hummingbirds. It is well-suited for rain gardens or areas with moist soil.</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Plant type:</strong> Flower</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>USDA hardiness zone: </strong>3 to 6<br><strong>Duration: </strong>Perennial</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Sunlight needs: </strong>Full sun to partial shade<br><strong>Soil preferences: </strong>Thrives in mucky clay soils. Prefers neutral to slightly acidic soil.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Water needs: </strong>High</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Mature size: </strong>3 to 5 feet tall</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Potential hazards: </strong>Poisonous when ingested raw and can be lethal to animals</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Maintenance: </strong>This native plant performs well in poor soils. It does not need fertilization.</p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"geranium\">7. Spotted Geranium (<em>Geranium maculatum</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/2023/03/Spotted-Geranium.jpg\" alt=\"Spotted Geranium\" class=\"wp-image-13077\" srcset=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Spotted-Geranium.jpg 800w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Spotted-Geranium-300x200.jpg 300w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Spotted-Geranium-768x513.jpg 768w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Spotted-Geranium-600x400.jpg 600w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Spotted-Geranium-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/wildreturn/51127871788\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Andy Reago &amp; Chrissy McClarren</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>Spotted geranium is a woodland perennial with showy, lavender-pink, five-petaled flowers that bloom from March to July. It is a low-maintenance option for a woodland garden, as it tolerates various soil types and moisture levels.</p>\n\n\n\n<p>This native plant attracts pollinators, such as hummingbirds, and its seeds appeal to Mourning Doves, Bobwhite Quail, and White-tailed Deer. It can also be used medicinally for diarrhea, inflamed gums, sore throat, thrush, and mouth ulcers.</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Plant type: </strong>Herbaceous perennial&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>USDA hardiness zone:</strong> 3 to 11</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>Sunlight needs:</strong> Full sun or partial shade</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Soil preferences:</strong> Clay, silt, high organic matter, or sandy soil that’s well-drained, moist, or somewhat wet</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Water needs: </strong>Medium</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Mature size: </strong>1 to 2 feet tall</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Potential hazards:</strong> Non-toxic; no safety hazards</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Maintenance: </strong>Low</p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"hydrangea\">8. Wild Hydrangea (<em>Hydrangea arborescens</em>)</h3>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https://www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=HYAR\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Wild hydrangea</a> is a deciduous shrub with large, flat-topped clusters of greenish-white flowers that bloom from late spring to late summer. This native plant attracts pollinators and provides a habitat for hummingbirds. Wild hydrangea is a low-maintenance option that tolerates various soil types, making it a versatile choice for Louisville landscapes.</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Plant type: </strong>Shrub</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>USDA hardiness zone:</strong> 3 to 9</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>Sunlight needs:</strong> Partial shade</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Soil preferences: </strong>Rich, well-drained, moist soil</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Water needs: </strong>Medium</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Mature size: </strong>3 to 6 feet tall</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Potential hazards:</strong> All parts of the plant are poisonous to humans and animals.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Maintenance: </strong>Needs supplemental watering in hot, humid summers</p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"fern\">9. Sensitive Fern (<em>Onoclea sensibilis</em>)</h3>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"800\" height=\"580\" src=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Sensitive-Fern.jpg\" alt=\"Sensitive Fern\" class=\"wp-image-13076\" srcset=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Sensitive-Fern.jpg 800w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Sensitive-Fern-300x218.jpg 300w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Sensitive-Fern-768x557.jpg 768w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Sensitive-Fern-480x348.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/71119007@N03/48000953132\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Under the same moon&#8230;</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></p>\n\n\n\n<p>Sensitive fern is a hardy, deciduous fern known for its delicate, bright green fronds. It is often found in moist, shady areas near streams or woodlands. It thrives in well-draining, humus-rich soil. Its name is derived from its sensitivity to first frost, as the plant’s fronds tend to wither with the first signs of cold weather.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Plant type: </strong>Fern</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>USDA hardiness zone: </strong>4 to 8</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>Sunlight needs:</strong> Partial shade to full shade</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Soil preferences: </strong>Various loose, acidic, moist to wet soils. Sandy, loamy, limestone-based</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Water needs:</strong> Medium to High</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Mature size:</strong> 2 to 4 feet tall</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Potential hazards:</strong> Can be toxic to humans in ingested in large quantities</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Maintenance: </strong>Needs consistent moisture to thrive</p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"choose\">How to Choose Native Plants for Your Louisville Landscape</h2>\n\n\n\n<p>When selecting native plants for your Louisville garden, it&#8217;s essential to consider the specific needs and conditions of your outdoor space. Follow these steps to assess your garden and choose the right plants:</p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Sunlight exposure:</strong> Observe your garden at different times of the day to determine which areas receive full sun, partial shade, or full shade. Native plants thrive best when they are grown in conditions that closely resemble their natural habitats.</li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Soil type:</strong> Test your soil to determine its composition. Knowing the type of soil you have will help you select the best native plants for your garden.</li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Drainage and moisture levels:</strong> Assess the drainage in your garden and the moisture levels in your soil. This information will help you choose plants that can thrive in your garden&#8217;s specific conditions.</li>\n</ul>\n\n\n\n<p></p>\n\n\n\n<p>Furthermore, it’s best to note that Louisville falls on the border of  <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https://planthardiness.ars.usda.gov/\" target=\"_blank\">USDA Hardiness Zones</a> 6 and 7. This zone classification can guide you in selecting plants that can tolerate our local climate. By carefully considering these factors, you can create a thriving, low-maintenance garden filled with <a href=\"http://wikilawn.com/lawn-care/ky/best-native-plants-kentucky/\">Kentucky native plants</a> that enhance the beauty of your landscape. </p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"faq\">FAQ About Native Louisville 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\">Why should I choose native plants for my Louisville landscape?</strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">Native plants offer numerous benefits, including supporting local ecosystems, being adapted to the local climate, and generally requiring less maintenance. They require less water, fertilizers, and pesticides. By incorporating these plants into your garden, you can contribute to the preservation of Derby City’s botanical heritage.<br/><br/></p> </div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">Are native plants always better than non-native plants?</strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">While native plants offer many advantages, they are not inherently better than non-native plants in every situation. The key is to choose plants that are non-invasive and suited to your specific garden conditions and goals. In some cases, mixing native and non-native plants can provide the ideal landscape that fits your preferences.<br/><br/></p> </div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">How do I care for native plants in my Louisville garden?</strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">Native plants typically require less maintenance than non-native species, as they are already adapted to local soil and weather conditions. To care for native plants, provide them with a suitable growing environment, such as the appropriate sunlight exposure and soil type. Water them as needed, especially during their first year of growth, and use organic mulch to help retain moisture and suppress weeds.<br/><br/></p> </div> </div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"find\">Where to Find Native Plants in Louisville</h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Are you ready to transform your Louisville garden into an oasis of native plants? From vibrant wildflowers and lush ferns to hardy grasses and low-maintenance groundcovers, the local flora offers something for every garden design and aesthetic. To get started, explore these local native plant suppliers listed on the <a href=\"https://www.knps.org/native-plant-suppliers-service-providers/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Kentucky Native Plant Society’s</a> website:&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>Beargrass Thunder</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Grow Wilder Native Plant Nursery</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Idlewild Butterfly Farm</li>\n</ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Native plants are perfect for homeowners that are looking for <a href=\"https://www.wikilawn.com/lawn-care/ky/louisville/low-maintenance-landscaping-louisville/\">low-maintenance landscaping</a> ideas for their outdoor space. You should also consider the <a href=\"https://www.wikilawn.com/lawn-care/ky/louisville/best-grass-types-louisville/\">best grass types in Louisville</a> that would perfectly complement your new native plants.&nbsp;<br></p>\n\n\n\n<p>To keep your native plants looking their best, connect with <a href=\"https://www.wikilawn.com/lawn-care/ky/louisville/\">local lawn care pros</a> for outdoor maintenance services, such as mowing, trimming, and edging. With the help of these pros, your outdoor space can stay green and lush, ensuring that your native plants thrive year-round.</p>\n\n\n\n<p>Main Photo Credit: Winchester House, Louisville / <a href=\"https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Winchester_House_Louisville_KY_Flickr.jpg\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">w.marsh on Flickr</a> / Wikimedia Commons / <a href=\"https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">CC BY 2.0</a></p>\n","title":"9 Best Native Plants for Louisville","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.3333333333333333,"src":"/static/2022c116282b3a2a984585f132c763a1/1789c/Winchester-House-Louisville-KY.jpg","srcSet":"/static/2022c116282b3a2a984585f132c763a1/107df/Winchester-House-Louisville-KY.jpg 320w,\n/static/2022c116282b3a2a984585f132c763a1/293e9/Winchester-House-Louisville-KY.jpg 500w,\n/static/2022c116282b3a2a984585f132c763a1/f2cbb/Winchester-House-Louisville-KY.jpg 800w,\n/static/2022c116282b3a2a984585f132c763a1/1789c/Winchester-House-Louisville-KY.jpg 960w,\n/static/2022c116282b3a2a984585f132c763a1/c26c2/Winchester-House-Louisville-KY.jpg 1200w","srcWebp":"/static/2022c116282b3a2a984585f132c763a1/1dd6e/Winchester-House-Louisville-KY.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/2022c116282b3a2a984585f132c763a1/67b76/Winchester-House-Louisville-KY.webp 320w,\n/static/2022c116282b3a2a984585f132c763a1/8df11/Winchester-House-Louisville-KY.webp 500w,\n/static/2022c116282b3a2a984585f132c763a1/98a65/Winchester-House-Louisville-KY.webp 800w,\n/static/2022c116282b3a2a984585f132c763a1/1dd6e/Winchester-House-Louisville-KY.webp 960w,\n/static/2022c116282b3a2a984585f132c763a1/3cc96/Winchester-House-Louisville-KY.webp 1200w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"9 Best Native Plants for Louisville | Wikilawn","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":"Learn about the best Jefferson County native plants for your garden in Louisville, Kentucky, plus find out where to buy native plants locally."}}},{"node":{"id":"848274c4-dea2-5d3a-bbe4-453c3f3a7cdd","slug":"best-grass-types-detroit","path":"/lawn-care/michigan/detroit/best-grass-types-detroit/","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":"f43b41b2-c5f2-52fc-842d-d4f53b9ac8ab","name":"Detroit","count":2,"path":"/category/lawn-care/michigan/detroit/"},{"id":"205f24d4-c1e5-5728-bb28-8ba70eecbc7a","name":"Lawn Care","count":432,"path":"/category/lawn-care/"},{"id":"75fb394d-179e-5e85-92bb-a24a339af8a6","name":"Michigan","count":12,"path":"/category/lawn-care/michigan/"}],"date":"April 1st, 2023","excerpt":"<p>Whether you like to host the neighborhood Winterfest or view the Ford Fireworks from your yard, having the right grass type is key. Your grass needs to be sturdy enough to handle all the lawn chairs and foot traffic, yet soft enough to cushion your falls during those epic snowball fights. To help you get [&hellip;]</p>\n","content":"\n<p>Whether you like to host the neighborhood Winterfest or view the Ford Fireworks from your yard, having the right grass type is key. Your grass needs to be sturdy enough to handle all the lawn chairs and foot traffic, yet soft enough to cushion your falls during those epic snowball fights. To help you get your yard ready, we’ve compiled a list of the best grass types for Detroit lawns.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p>From humid summers with heavy rains to cold, snowy winters, the Motor City’s weather can take its toll on even the toughest grasses. The solution? Planting cool-season grasses. These hardy species are the only types of grass that can withstand the unpredictable weather conditions of Detroit.</p>\n\n\n\n<p>In this list, we’ll take a look at 5 cool-season grasses: Kentucky bluegrass, tall fescue, perennial ryegrass, fine fescue, and creeping bentgrass. It&#8217;s worth noting that the best type of grass for your lawn will depend on a variety of factors, such as the amount of shade, maintenance requirements, and foot traffic. Let’s dive in!</p>\n\n\n\n<p>In this article, we’ll cover:&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li><strong><a href=\"#Grasses\">Warm-Season vs. Cool-Season Grasses</a></strong></li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"#Detroit\">5 Best Grass Types for Detroit</a></strong></li>\n</ul>\n\n\n\n<ol>\n<li><strong><a href=\"#Kentucky\">Kentucky Bluegrass</a></strong></li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"#Perennial\">Perennial Ryegrass</a></strong></li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"#Tall\">Tall Fescue</a></strong></li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"#Fine\">Fine Fescue</a></strong></li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"#Creeping\">Creeping Bentgrass</a></strong></li>\n</ol>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li><strong><a href=\"#FAQ\">FAQ About Detroit Grass Types</a></strong></li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"#Landscape\">Choose Plant and Grass Varieties for Your Detroit Landscape</a></strong></li>\n</ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"Grasses\">Warm-Season vs. Cool-Season Grasses</h2>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Warm-season grasses </strong>are those that thrive in warmer climates and are commonly found in the southern regions of the United States. They turn green when temperatures warm up in spring, and go dormant during the winter months.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Cool-season grasses</strong> are better suited for cooler regions. They grow best when soil temperatures are between 50 degrees and 65 degrees Fahrenheit (during spring and early fall), and enter winter dormancy when soil temperatures drop below 45 degrees Fahrenheit.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"Detroit\">5 Cool-Season Grasses for Detroit</h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Cool-season grasses are an excellent option for lawns in Detroit, as they can handle the harsh winters and humid summers that are typical in the northern half of the United States.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"Kentucky\">1. Kentucky Bluegrass</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/2023/03/3883807553_bb3e30d89e_c-1.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12952\" srcset=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/3883807553_bb3e30d89e_c-1.jpg 800w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/3883807553_bb3e30d89e_c-1-300x225.jpg 300w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/3883807553_bb3e30d89e_c-1-768x576.jpg 768w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/3883807553_bb3e30d89e_c-1-510x382.jpg 510w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/3883807553_bb3e30d89e_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/plant_diversity/3883807553\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Matt Lavin</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>Kentucky bluegrass is the most popular choice among homeowners in Detroit. If you like to host Red Wings-themed BBQs or just have kids that love to play outdoors during the holiday season, then this type of grass should be on your radar. Its blades are tough enough to withstand heavy foot traffic, and it has an aggressive sod-forming nature that allows quick recovery from damage.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p>Kentucky bluegrass has a rich, deep green hue and grows best in full sun conditions. This means it doesn’t tolerate shade as well as other cool-season grasses (like fine fescue), so it’s not the best option if your yard has lots of trees and shrubs in it. While it can resist drought, keep in mind that you&#8217;ll need to water it and fertilize it regularly to keep it looking its best.</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Classification: </strong>Cool-season grass</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Spreads by: </strong>Rhizomes</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Shade tolerance: </strong>Low shade tolerance, among the lowest of any cool-season grass.</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Drought tolerance: </strong>Moderate &#8211; if the lawn is not properly irrigated during hot months, the grass will become brown.</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Foot traffic tolerance: </strong>Moderate &#8211; however, its rhizomes give it an exceptional capacity to quickly recover from damage.</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Maintenance needs: </strong>Moderate mowing frequency and high fertilization needs.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Mowing height: </strong>2.5 &#8211; 3.5 inches</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Potential for disease: </strong>Moderate to high; prone to several diseases, such as dollar spot, leaf spot, necrotic ring spot, summer patch, and stripe smut.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Soil pH:</strong> 6 &#8211; 7.5</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Soil type: </strong>Performs best in well-drained, heavy soils with high fertility.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Other notes: </strong>Kentucky bluegrass takes longer to sprout compared to other cool-season grasses. To achieve a thick and healthy lawn in a shorter time, using a blend of grass seeds is recommended. Perennial ryegrass and specific types of fescues (such as fine fescue) complement Kentucky bluegrass well.</p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"Perennial\">2. Perennial Ryegrass</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/2023/03/7370356864_c9e8d6081f_c.jpg\" alt=\"A light green colored ryegrasss\" class=\"wp-image-13050\" srcset=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/7370356864_c9e8d6081f_c.jpg 800w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/7370356864_c9e8d6081f_c-300x225.jpg 300w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/7370356864_c9e8d6081f_c-768x576.jpg 768w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/7370356864_c9e8d6081f_c-510x382.jpg 510w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/7370356864_c9e8d6081f_c-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/macleaygrassman/7370356864\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Harry Rose</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><a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https://forage.msu.edu/extension/perennial-ryegrass-potential-in-michigan/\" target=\"_blank\">Perennial ryegrass</a> is known for its fast germination and rapid growth, making it an excellent choice for overseeding or establishing a new lawn. If you have pets that like to dig in the yard,&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p>it will fill in bare spots in a matter of weeks and provide a more uniform appearance to your lawn overall. You’ll need to mow and water it frequently to maintain its lush appearance, but it’s highly adaptable to different soil types and can tolerate romping kids, yard sports, and parties.</p>\n\n\n\n<p>One downside to perennial ryegrass is that it can struggle to survive during periods of extended heat –think of Detroit’s harsh summer months (July &#8211; August). It also tends to be more susceptible to disease than some of the other grasses on this list, especially with Detroit’s humidity.</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Classification:</strong> Cool-season grass</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Spreads by:</strong> Bunch-type growth habit</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Shade tolerance:</strong> Low</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Drought tolerance:</strong> Low</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Foot traffic tolerance: </strong>High</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Maintenance needs:</strong> Moderate mowing and fertilization requirements. Thatch buildup isn’t significant.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Mowing height:</strong> 1.5 &#8211; 2.5 inches</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Potential for disease:</strong> High. Common diseases include gray leaf spots, red thread, and leaf spot/melting-out.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Soil pH:</strong> Can grow in soils with a pH between 5 and 8 but prefers between 6 and 7.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Soil type: </strong>Prefers good drainage and fertility but can tolerate some poor drainage.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Other notes: </strong>It’s very common to mix between 10% to 15% of perennial ryegrass with Kentucky bluegrass in order to improve the bluegrass germination and achieve a more healthy and traffic-tolerant lawn.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"Tall\">3. Tall Fescue</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=\"577\" src=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/800px-Festuca_arundinacea-1.jpg\" alt=\"Blades of Tall fescue grass shown.\" class=\"wp-image-13054\" srcset=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/800px-Festuca_arundinacea-1.jpg 800w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/800px-Festuca_arundinacea-1-300x216.jpg 300w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/800px-Festuca_arundinacea-1-768x554.jpg 768w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/800px-Festuca_arundinacea-1-480x346.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:Festuca_arundinacea.jpg\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Bildoj</a> / Wikimedia Commons / <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0/deed.en\" target=\"_blank\">CC BY-SA 3.0</a></p>\n\n\n\n<p><a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https://www.canr.msu.edu/ipm/diseases/tall-fescue\" target=\"_blank\">Tall fescue</a> is a great choice for homeowners who want a low-maintenance lawn that can withstand Detroit’s climate and environmental stressors. Additionally, this grass type has a deep green color and a fine texture, giving it an aesthetically pleasing appearance that can enhance the curb appeal of any property.</p>\n\n\n\n<p>It adapts well to most soil conditions, and has a deep root system that allows it to tolerate drought and heat better than many other grasses. Tall fescue is also tolerant of many common lawn diseases and pests in Michigan, such as dollar spot, brown patch, white grubs, and chinch bugs. And while you’ll need to mow it regularly (it grows fast), fall fescue doesn’t require frequent watering and fertilizing.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Classification: </strong>Cool-season grass</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Spreads by:</strong> Produces short rhizomes but has a bunch-type growth habit</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Shade tolerance:</strong> Moderate</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Drought tolerance: </strong>Moderate to High</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Foot traffic tolerance:</strong> Moderate</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Maintenance needs:</strong> Frequent mowing. Does not produce significant thatch.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Mowing height:</strong> Set mowing height to 2 inches when grass reaches 3 inches tall.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Potential for disease:</strong> Tolerant of most diseases when properly maintained.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Soil pH: </strong>5.5-6.5</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Soil type:</strong> Adapted to a wide range of soil conditions but prefers fertile clay soils with good drainage.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Other notes:</strong> It doesn’t mix well with other grass types, so it’s best to seed it by itself.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"Fine\">4. Fine Fescue</h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Fine fescue does well in full sun, but is also the most shade tolerant cool-season grass you can get your hands on – especially the chewings variety. It resists drought pretty well and doesn&#8217;t require much fertilizer to grow.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p>However, if you plan to celebrate the Detroit Tigers on Opening Day in your yard, this grass type isn’t ideal. It doesn’t have as much traffic tolerance as perennial ryegrass or Kentucky bluegrass.</p>\n\n\n\n<p>Now, one of the most significant benefits of fine fescue is its low maintenance requirements. It’s a slow-growing grass that doesn’t require frequent mowing, making it a great choice for homeowners who want a beautiful lawn without the hassle of constant upkeep.</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Classification: </strong>Cool-season grass</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Spreads by: </strong>Creeping red Fescue spreads by rhizomes, while other fine fescues are bunch-type grasses, such as chewing, hard, and sheep fescues.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Shade tolerance:</strong> Moderate to High, depending on species</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Drought tolerance: </strong>Moderate to High, depending on species</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Foot traffic tolerance: </strong>Low to Moderate, depending on species</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Maintenance needs: </strong>Low fertilizer and mowing needs.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Mowing height: </strong>Set mowing height between 2.5 and 4.0 inches, depending on species.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Potential for disease:</strong> Moderate. Common diseases include red thread, leaf spot, dollar spot, summer patch, and powdery mildew.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Soil pH:</strong> 6-6.5</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Soil type: </strong>Will not perform well in wet soil conditions. It prefers drier soils and tolerates a wide range of soil types and fertility.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Other notes:</strong> When used in combination with other types of cool-season grasses, fine fescue can help create a low-maintenance, healthy green lawn.</p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"Creeping\">5. Creeping Bentgrass</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/2023/03/3820997510_5ae18bbfb3_c-1.jpg\" alt=\"Blades of lush green colored creeping bentgrass\" class=\"wp-image-13058\" srcset=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/3820997510_5ae18bbfb3_c-1.jpg 800w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/3820997510_5ae18bbfb3_c-1-300x225.jpg 300w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/3820997510_5ae18bbfb3_c-1-768x576.jpg 768w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/3820997510_5ae18bbfb3_c-1-510x382.jpg 510w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/3820997510_5ae18bbfb3_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/plant_diversity/3820997510\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Matt Lavin</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 class=\"has-text-align-left\"><a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https://www.canr.msu.edu/ipm/diseases/creeping-bentgrass\" target=\"_blank\">Creeping bentgrass</a> is the Cadillac of Motor City’s lawns, providing a velvety-smooth, carpet-like texture that&#8217;s perfect for golf courses and high-end landscapes. But be warned –– if you&#8217;re not willing to invest the time and money necessary to manage it properly, you may be in for a rough ride.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p>The truth is, creeping bentgrass requires a lot of maintenance to keep it looking its best. Neglect it, and it can quickly become overgrown and adopt a rough weed look. It&#8217;s also highly susceptible to pests and diseases, which can be difficult and expensive to control.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Classification: </strong>Cool-season grass</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Spreads by:</strong> Stolons</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Shade tolerance:</strong> Moderate</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Drought tolerance: </strong>Low</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Foot traffic tolerance:</strong> Moderate</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Maintenance needs:</strong> Requires frequent watering, fertilizing, dethatching, and mowing.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Mowing height:</strong> 0.5 &#8211; 0.125 inches.</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Potential for disease:</strong> High disease potential. Common infections include dollar spot and brown patch.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Soil pH:</strong> 5.5-6.5</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Soil type:</strong> Prefers moist soils with good drainage.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Other notes:</strong> Without proper care, creeping bentgrass has the potential to quickly spread into other turf areas nearby.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"FAQ\">FAQ About Detroit Grass Types</h2>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"schema-faq wp-block-yoast-faq-block\"><div class=\"schema-faq-section\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">When should I plant grass seed in Detroit?</strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">The ideal time for planting grass seed in Detroit is typically towards the end of summer, specifically between mid-August and late September. This is a suitable time because the high heat and dry conditions of summer have passed, and rainfall becomes more frequent.<br/>If you miss the fall planting season, early to mid spring is the second-best time to plant grass seeds, but it’s recommended to avoid planting beyond mid-June. </p> </div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">What is the softest grass type for Detroit lawns?</strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">For those looking to cultivate a soft, comfortable lawn in Detroit, Kentucky bluegrass is the best option. This cool-season grass is well-suited for heavy traffic areas and is known for its thin, fine blades that give it a soft texture and appearance. </p> </div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">What is the most low-maintenance grass for Detroit?</strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">When it comes to low-maintenance grass options for Detroit, fine fescue grasses are often a great choice. This grass type adapts well to the climate and soil conditions in Michigan, and it requires less fertilizer, water, and mowing than other cool-season grasses.</p> </div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">What is the best grass type to patch bare spots?</strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">Perennial ryegrass is a fast-growing grass that is often used for overseeding or patching up bare spots in lawns. It’s also ideal for areas that need to withstand foot traffic and wear and tear, like around playgrounds and athletic fields.</p> </div> </div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"Landscape\">Choose Plant and Grass Varieties for Your Detroit Landscape</h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Choosing the right grass for your Detroit lawn can make all the difference in its appearance and overall health. Consider factors such as shade tolerance, soil type, and maintenance requirements when deciding which grass type to plant.</p>\n\n\n\n<p>The five grass types we discussed are all great options for Detroit&#8217;s climate and soil conditions, but there may be other species that best complement your unique landscape. Don&#8217;t forget to explore the vast array of <a href=\"https://www.wikilawn.com/lawn-care/michigan/detroit/best-native-plants-detroit/\">native plants</a> that thrive in Michigan&#8217;s climate and consider incorporating them into your lawn.</p>\n\n\n\n<p>If you want to create a comfortable and inviting outdoor space for you and your family to enjoy, contact a <a href=\"https://www.wikilawn.com/lawn-care/mi/detroit/\">Detroit lawn care pro</a> today.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p>Main Image Credit: Arther M. Parker House Detroit / <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Arthur_M._Parker_House_Detroit_MI.jpg\" target=\"_blank\">Andrew Jameson</a> / Wikimedia Commons / <a href=\"https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0/deed.en\">CC BY-SA 3.0</a></p>\n","title":"5 Best Grass Types for Detroit","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.3761467889908257,"src":"/static/a67e6222682e0f75be4a178947679ca8/1789c/Arthur_M._Parker_House_Detroit_MI-1.jpg","srcSet":"/static/a67e6222682e0f75be4a178947679ca8/107df/Arthur_M._Parker_House_Detroit_MI-1.jpg 320w,\n/static/a67e6222682e0f75be4a178947679ca8/293e9/Arthur_M._Parker_House_Detroit_MI-1.jpg 500w,\n/static/a67e6222682e0f75be4a178947679ca8/f2cbb/Arthur_M._Parker_House_Detroit_MI-1.jpg 800w,\n/static/a67e6222682e0f75be4a178947679ca8/1789c/Arthur_M._Parker_House_Detroit_MI-1.jpg 960w,\n/static/a67e6222682e0f75be4a178947679ca8/c26c2/Arthur_M._Parker_House_Detroit_MI-1.jpg 1200w","srcWebp":"/static/a67e6222682e0f75be4a178947679ca8/1dd6e/Arthur_M._Parker_House_Detroit_MI-1.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/a67e6222682e0f75be4a178947679ca8/67b76/Arthur_M._Parker_House_Detroit_MI-1.webp 320w,\n/static/a67e6222682e0f75be4a178947679ca8/8df11/Arthur_M._Parker_House_Detroit_MI-1.webp 500w,\n/static/a67e6222682e0f75be4a178947679ca8/98a65/Arthur_M._Parker_House_Detroit_MI-1.webp 800w,\n/static/a67e6222682e0f75be4a178947679ca8/1dd6e/Arthur_M._Parker_House_Detroit_MI-1.webp 960w,\n/static/a67e6222682e0f75be4a178947679ca8/3cc96/Arthur_M._Parker_House_Detroit_MI-1.webp 1200w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"5 Best Grass Types for Detroit | Wikilawn","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":"Want a green, lush yard? Use this guide to decide between the best cool-season grass types for your Detroit, Michigan lawn."}}},{"node":{"id":"e99b4fc3-3956-50c5-9d8c-a84f4139678a","slug":"best-native-plants-pittsburgh","path":"/lawn-care/pa/pittsburgh/best-native-plants-pittsburgh/","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":"5bb57152-2e9b-5822-a133-bc84c122adab","name":"Landscaping","count":42,"path":"/category/blog/landscaping/"},{"id":"2d317bbd-578b-5162-8946-7b230bb15f85","name":"Pennsylvania","count":4,"path":"/category/lawn-care/pa/"},{"id":"df1e282b-b8dd-56e2-b231-44dc03e8950d","name":"Pittsburgh","count":2,"path":"/category/lawn-care/pa/pittsburgh/"}],"date":"April 1st, 2023","excerpt":"<p>Steel City is known for its cold winters and hot summers. So, when dreaming about your perfect backyard landscape, consider the best native plants for Pittsburgh that can withstand the change of seasons. By choosing native species, you save time and money and help the ecosystem. There are several advantages of planting native species in [&hellip;]</p>\n","content":"\n<p>Steel City is known for its cold winters and hot summers. So, when dreaming about your perfect backyard landscape, consider the best native plants for Pittsburgh that can withstand the change of seasons. By choosing native species, you save time and money and help the ecosystem.</p>\n\n\n\n<p>There are several advantages of planting native species in your Pittsburgh backyard:</p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>Native plants fortify the ecosystem by providing food and habitats for native wildlife.</li>\n</ul>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>Native trees and plants are essential for clean air and water, capturing stormwater runoff, preventing erosion, and mitigating temperature extremes.</li>\n</ul>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>Many native plants require little to no fertilizer.</li>\n</ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Native plants help to promote and preserve Pittsburgh&#8217;s ecosystem. Consider these 10 native plants for Pittsburgh to create a stunning backyard.</p>\n\n\n\n<p>In this article, we’ll see:</p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"#native\">11 Native Plants for Your Pittsburgh Yard</a>\n<ol>\n<li><a href=\"#eastern\">Eastern Redbud</a></li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"#susan\">Black-Eyed Susan</a></li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"#bluebells\">Virginia Bluebells</a></li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"#geranium\">Wild Geranium</a></li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"#columbine\">Wild Columbine</a></li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"#aster\">New England Aster</a></li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"#weed\">Butterfly Weed</a></li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"#holly\">American Holly</a></li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"#star\">Marsh Blazing Star</a></li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"#aromatic\">Aromatic Aster</a></li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"#birch\">Black Birch</a></li>\n</ol>\n</li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"#choose\">How to Choose Native Plants for Your Pittsburgh Landscape</a></li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"#faq\">FAQ About Native Pittsburgh Plants</a></li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"#find\">Where to Find Native Plants in Pittsburgh</a></li>\n</ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"native\">11 Native Plants for Your Pittsburgh Yard</h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"eastern\">1. Eastern Redbud <em>(Cercis 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/2023/03/Eastern-Redbud.jpg\" alt=\"Eastern Redbud plant in a lawn\" class=\"wp-image-13073\" srcset=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Eastern-Redbud.jpg 800w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Eastern-Redbud-300x225.jpg 300w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Eastern-Redbud-768x576.jpg 768w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Eastern-Redbud-510x382.jpg 510w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Eastern-Redbud-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:2021-04-18_10_39_46_Eastern_Redbud_blooming_along_Indale_Court_in_the_Franklin_Farm_section_of_Oak_Hill,_Fairfax_County,_Virginia.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>The eastern redbud is a deciduous tree that typically grows 20 to 30 feet tall. The tree is known for its striking pink or purple flowers, which bloom in early spring before the leaves emerge. It is a famous ornamental tree because of its early spring blooms and attractive heart-shaped leaves ranging from green to blue-green. In the fall, the leaves turn yellow before dropping from the tree. The bark of the eastern redbud is dark brown and slightly rough.</p>\n\n\n\n<p>Like many plants, it is susceptible to insect pests and diseases like leafhoppers, caterpillars, borers, japanese beetles, treehoppers, scales, and webworms. Possible diseases that can affect it include canker, dieback, leaf spots, verticillium wilt, blights, and mildew. However, with proper care, the eastern redbuck can be a beautiful and resilient addition to a landscape.</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Plant type:</strong> Tree</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 or partial shade.</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Soil:</strong> Any moist, well-draining, nutrient-rich soil</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Duration:</strong> Deciduous perennial</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Bloom time:</strong> Spring</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Water needs:</strong> Keep the soil moist to a depth of 2 to 3 inches; watering schedule depends on your soil type, but you should water about once per week</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Mature height:</strong> 20 to 30 feet tall with a 25 to 35 foot spread</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Maintenance:</strong> Low. Since this tree is not meant to transplant, it should be planted when young and left undisturbed. It needs little pruning.</p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"susan\">2. Black-Eyed Susan <em>(Rudbeckia hirta)</em></h3>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"800\" height=\"571\" src=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Black-Eyed-Susan.jpg\" alt=\"closeup image of black-eyed susan flower\" class=\"wp-image-12199\" srcset=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Black-Eyed-Susan.jpg 800w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Black-Eyed-Susan-300x214.jpg 300w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Black-Eyed-Susan-768x548.jpg 768w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Black-Eyed-Susan-480x343.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:Rudbeckia_hirta_kz03.jpg\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Krzysztof Ziarnek, Kenraiz</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>Black-eyed Susan is a flowering plant known for its bright yellow petals and dark brown center. It typically grows to a height of 1 to 3 feet and blooms during spring, summer, and early autumn. Black-eyed Susan is often grown as an ornamental plant in cottage and butterfly gardens and landscapes. It is also an essential source of pollen and nectar for pollinators.</p>\n\n\n\n<p>While Black-eyed Susan is generally a hardy plant, it can be vulnerable to powdery mildew, slugs and snails.&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 9</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Sun:</strong> Full sun</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Soil:</strong> Clay, sand, loam, acidic, moist, well-drained</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Duration:</strong> Depending on growing conditions can act as a biennial, annual, or short-lived perennial</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Fragrance:</strong> Sweet</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Bloom time:</strong> Spring, summer, early autumn</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Water needs:</strong> Medium. It has moderate drought tolerance</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Mature height:</strong> 1 to 3 feet.</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Maintenance:</strong> Low. Can self-seed freely. Black-eyed Susan can become aggressive if given too perfect an environment and insufficient competition.</p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"bluebells\">3. Virginia Bluebells <em>(Mertensia virginica)</em></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/2023/03/Virginia-Bluebells.jpg\" alt=\"Virginia Bluebells\" class=\"wp-image-13091\" srcset=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Virginia-Bluebells.jpg 800w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Virginia-Bluebells-300x169.jpg 300w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Virginia-Bluebells-768x432.jpg 768w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Virginia-Bluebells-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://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Virginia_Bluebells_%28Mertensia_virginica%29_-_Oakville,_Ontario_2017-05-12_%2802%29.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><a href=\"https://www.gardenia.net/plant/mertensia-virginica\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Virginia bluebells</a> is a herbaceous perennial plant that produces clusters of bell-shaped flowers that are pink in bud and then gradually turn to a beautiful sky blue color. The flowers bloom in early spring and attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p>It grows from seeds in the fall, overwinters as small rosettes of leaves, and then rapidly grows and flowers in the spring before going dormant in the summer. The plant spreads by self-seeding and can form large colonies over time.</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>Chalk, clay, loam, sand. 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, sweet</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Bloom time: </strong>Spring</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Water needs: </strong>Average. It does its best when moisture is abundant and will decline when the soil is too dry</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Mature height:</strong> 1 to 2 feet</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Maintenance: </strong>Medium. This plant self-seeds, but is not easy to propagate. It should be cut back after flowering.</p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"geranium\">4. Wild Geranium <em>(Geranium maculatum)</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/2023/03/Wild-Geranium.jpg\" alt=\"Wild Geranium\" class=\"wp-image-12625\" srcset=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Wild-Geranium.jpg 800w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Wild-Geranium-300x201.jpg 300w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Wild-Geranium-768x515.jpg 768w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Wild-Geranium-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/4586112364\" 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>Wild geranium is a herbaceous perennial plant known as wood geranium, spotted geranium, or cranesbill. It typically grows 1 to 2 feet tall and produces showy, five-petaled, pinkish-purple flowers in late spring to early summer. Its leaves are deeply lobed.</p>\n\n\n\n<p>It is a popular garden plant and is often used as a ground cover due to its ability to spread through rhizomes. Ground covers help to prevent soil erosion, outcompete and suppress the growth of weeds, and help to retain moisture in the soil.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Plant type:</strong> Clump-forming flowering plant</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 part 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>Citrus and fruity accents with a hint of rose smell</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Bloom time: </strong>Late spring, early summer</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Water needs: </strong>Medium. Recently planted geraniums should be kept in moist soil during the first growing season.</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Mature height: </strong>1 to 2 feet</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Maintenance:</strong> Low. Remove flower stems and old leaves to encourage the production of new leaves and flowers.</p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"columbine\">5. Wild 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><a href=\"https://www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=AQCA\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Wild columbine</a> is a beautiful wildflower that grows 2 to 3 feet tall and has distinctive, bell-shaped flowers with red and yellow petals. The leaves of wild columbine are delicate and fern-like, and the flowers are borne on long, thin stalks that rise above the foliage. Because of their nectar, the flowers attract bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds.</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 part 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>Bloom time:</strong> Late spring, early summer</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Water needs:</strong> Average. It prefers moist soil, so don&#8217;t let the soil dry out.</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Mature height:</strong> 1 to 3 feet</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Maintenance:</strong> Medium. Be careful of overwatering in summer because the crowns can rot. Remove faded flowering stems to promote additional bloom.</p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"aster\">6. New England Aster <em>(Symphyotrichum novae-angliae)</em></h3>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"800\" height=\"900\" src=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/New-England-Aster.jpg\" alt=\"New England Aster\" class=\"wp-image-12621\" srcset=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/New-England-Aster.jpg 800w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/New-England-Aster-267x300.jpg 267w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/New-England-Aster-768x864.jpg 768w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/New-England-Aster-480x540.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:Symphyotrichum_novae-angliae3.jpg\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">The Cosmonaut</a> / Wikimedia Commons / <a href=\"https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/2.5/ca/deed.en\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">CC BY-SA 2.5 CA</a></p>\n\n\n\n<p></p>\n\n\n\n<p>The New England aster is a perennial herbaceous plant that grows up to 6 feet tall and has numerous purple, pink, or violet flowers with yellow centers. The plant blooms in late summer to fall, making it a valuable late-season food source for bees and other pollinators. The New England aster is a beautiful and beneficial plant for its aesthetic and ecological qualities.</p>\n\n\n\n<p>New England aster can be susceptible to powdery mildew and aster wilt. To prevent aster wilt, it is important to plant New England aster in well-drained soil and avoid overwatering.</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Plant type:</strong> Herbaceous 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, 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>Deciduous perennial</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Bloom time:</strong> Late summer, autumn</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Water needs: </strong>Medium. It prefers medium moisture, well-drained soil.</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Mature height: </strong>3 to 6 feet</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Maintenance:</strong> Medium. If the plant is tall, it may require staking or other support. Pinch back stems before midsummer to promote bushiness, produce more flowers, and control the plant height.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"weed\">7. 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=\"521\" src=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Butterfly-Weed-Entire-Flower-Head.jpg\" alt=\"Butterfly Weed entire flower head\" class=\"wp-image-13089\" srcset=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Butterfly-Weed-Entire-Flower-Head.jpg 800w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Butterfly-Weed-Entire-Flower-Head-300x195.jpg 300w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Butterfly-Weed-Entire-Flower-Head-768x500.jpg 768w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Butterfly-Weed-Entire-Flower-Head-480x313.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:Butterfly_Weed_Entire_Flower_Head_2608px.jpg\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Photo by Derek Ramsey (Ram-Man)</a> / Wikimedia Commons / <a href=\"https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/2.5\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">CC BY-SA 2.5</a></p>\n\n\n\n<p></p>\n\n\n\n<p>Butterfly weed is a perennial herb that can grow up to 3 feet tall and produces clusters of bright orange or yellow flowers in the summer. The plant gets its name from its ability to attract a wide variety of butterflies, which are attracted to the nectar produced by its flowers.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p>Butterfly weed is relatively easy to grow but requires well-drained soil and full sun. Butterfly weed is essential to monarch butterfly survival; planting it in your garden can help preserve this beautiful insect.</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Plant type: </strong>Herbaceous flower</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>USDA Hardiness Zone:</strong> 3 to 9&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Sun:</strong> Full sun</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Soil: </strong>Clay, loam, sand. Acid, neutral. Prefers well-drained sandy soils. Performs well in poor, dry soils.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Duration: </strong>Deciduous perennial</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Fragrance:</strong> Sweet, vanilla, candy-like fragrance.</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Bloom time:</strong> Late spring, summer.</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Water needs:</strong> Low. It thrives in dry to moist, well-drained soils. Tolerates drought.</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Mature height: </strong>1 to 2 feet</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Potential hazards: </strong>Toxic to pets, livestock, and people when ingested</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Maintenance:</strong> Low. Plants can grow fast from seed but are slow to establish and may take 2 to 3 years to produce flowers.</p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"holly\">8. American Holly <em>(Ilex opaca)</em></h3>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"800\" height=\"686\" src=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/American-Holly.jpg\" alt=\"American Holly\" class=\"wp-image-13086\" srcset=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/American-Holly.jpg 800w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/American-Holly-300x257.jpg 300w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/American-Holly-768x659.jpg 768w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/American-Holly-480x412.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:Ilex_opaca_American_holly_flowers.jpg\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Dcrjsr</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>American holly is a species of evergreen tree known for its glossy green leaves, which are often used in holiday decorations. It can grow up to 50 feet tall and produces small, white flowers during spring. Bright red berries follow flowers in the fall and winter. American holly provides food for many species of birds, including cedar waxwings, robins, and blue jays. In contrast, the dense foliage provides shelter for animals such as deer and rabbits.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p>It is a slow-growing tree that requires well-drained soil and full sun to partial shade. It can be prone to insect pests like holly leaf miners, spider mites, whitefly, and scale. It may also suffer from diseases like leaf spots, rot, tar spot, and powdery mildew, causing leaf discoloration, wilting, and overall decline. Proper care and maintenance are essential to keep it healthy.</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Plant type: </strong>Tree</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>USDA Hardiness Zone:</strong> 5 to 9</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Sun: </strong>Full sun, partial shade</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Soil:</strong> Chalk, clay, loam, sand. Acid, neutral. Moist but well-drained.</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Duration:</strong> Evergreen perennial</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Fragrance:</strong> Sweet</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Bloom time: </strong>Spring and early summer</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Water needs:</strong> Medium. It will occasionally tolerate wet or dry soil but not flooding. For optimum growth, avoid poorly drained soils.</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Mature height: </strong>15 to 30 feet. In moist regions, it can occasionally approach up to 60 feet.</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Potential hazards: </strong>It may be toxic if ingested by people, cats, or dogs. Children are most vulnerable because of their curiosity and small size.</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Maintenance: </strong>Low. Supplemental water may be necessary for drier sands.</p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"star\">9. Marsh Blazing Star <em>(liatris spicata)</em></h3>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"800\" height=\"583\" src=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Marsh-Blazing-Star.jpg\" alt=\"Marsh Blazing Star flowers\" class=\"wp-image-13090\" srcset=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Marsh-Blazing-Star.jpg 800w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Marsh-Blazing-Star-300x219.jpg 300w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Marsh-Blazing-Star-768x560.jpg 768w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Marsh-Blazing-Star-480x350.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:Dense_Blazing_Star_-_liatris_spicata_%284347689892%29.jpg\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Drew Avery</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>Marsh blazing star is a herbaceous perennial commonly known as dense blazing star or button snakeroot. It produces tall spikes of pink to purple flowers in the summer, highly attractive to bees, butterflies, and other pollinators.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p>The plant grows to a height of 2 to 5 feet and has narrow, grass-like leaves that grow up from the base of the plant. It is relatively low-maintenance and easy to grow from seed or transplants. It can tolerate a wide variety of soil types.</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Plant type:</strong> Herbaceous flowering plant</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</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> Deciduous perennial</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Fragrance:</strong> Faint smell of vanilla</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Bloom time:</strong> Summer</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Water needs:</strong> Medium. Intolerant of wet soils in winter.</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Mature height:</strong> 3 to 6 feet</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Maintenance: </strong>Low. Tall plants may need staking or other support.</p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"aromatic\">10. Aromatic Aster <em>(symphyotrichum oblongifolium)</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/2023/03/Aromatic-Aster.jpg\" alt=\"Aromatic Aster\" class=\"wp-image-13087\" srcset=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Aromatic-Aster.jpg 800w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Aromatic-Aster-300x200.jpg 300w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Aromatic-Aster-768x513.jpg 768w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Aromatic-Aster-600x400.jpg 600w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Aromatic-Aster-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/158105449@N02/51838903688\" 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><a href=\"https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/symphyotrichum-oblongifolium/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Aromatic aster</a> is a herbaceous perennial that produces clusters of small, daisy-like flowers in the late summer and fall, which range in color from pale blue to violet. The plant grows to a height of 1 to 3 feet and has narrow, lance-shaped leaves that are highly aromatic when crushed.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p>In addition to its beauty, aromatic aster is valued for its ecological value. It is an important nectar source for pollinators, and its seeds are eaten by many species of birds.</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Plant type:</strong> Herbaceous flower</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>USDA Hardiness Zone: </strong>3 to 8&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Sun:</strong> Full sun</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Soil:</strong> Clay, loam, sand. Alkaline, neutral, acidic soil. Well-drained.</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Duration: </strong>Deciduous perennial</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Fragrance: </strong>Balsam-like aroma when flowers are crushed</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Bloom time: </strong>Late summer, autumn</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Water needs:</strong> Low. It can tolerate drought</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Mature height:</strong> 1 to 3 feet</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Maintenance: </strong>If the plant gets top-heavy, you can keep it thick by pruning it back by no more than half in June. After it goes dormant, wait to cut back to the basal rosette in late fall or early winter. Some support may be needed for taller plants.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"birch\">11. Black Birch (<em>betula nigra</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/Black-birch.jpg\" alt=\"Black birch\" class=\"wp-image-13088\" srcset=\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Black-birch.jpg 800w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Black-birch-300x225.jpg 300w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Black-birch-768x576.jpg 768w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Black-birch-510x382.jpg 510w, https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Black-birch-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:Betula_nigra.jpg\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Bruce Marlin</a> / Wikimedia Commons / <a href=\"https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/2.5\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">CC BY-SA 2.5</a></p>\n\n\n\n<p></p>\n\n\n\n<p>Black birch can grow up to 80 feet tall, with a trunk diameter of up to 3 feet. Black birch is known for its distinctive black, scaly bark that peels off in thin, curly strips. The leaves are dark green and oval-shaped with a pointed tip.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p>In the fall, leaves change their color to a beautiful golden-yellow tone. The tree produces catkins in the spring, clusters of tiny flowers hanging from the branches. These flowers are an essential food source for bees and other pollinators.</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Plant type: </strong>Tree</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 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>Deciduous perennial</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Fragrance:</strong> The inner bark of the tree has a strong wintergreen scent</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Bloom time:</strong> Spring</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Water needs: </strong>Medium. Perform best in moist soils. The use of soaker hoses and bark mulches keeps the roots moist.</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Mature height:</strong> 40 to 70 feet</p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Maintenance: </strong>Low. It needs little pruning. It tends to drop a lot of twigs, making it better suited for rustic areas of the landscape.</p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"choose\">How to Choose Native Plants for Your Pittsburgh Yard&nbsp;</h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Growing native plants in the landscape and garden can help support local biodiversity, reduce water usage, and create a beautiful and sustainable landscape. However, not all native plants are suitable for your garden, be sure to select plants suitable for the soil, sun exposure, and watering capabilities of your backyard.</p>\n\n\n\n<p>Pittsburgh sits in USDA Hardiness Zone 6, indicating cold winters and warm summers. Keep your zone in mind when selecting non-native plants for your landscape.</p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"faq\">FAQ About Native Pittsburgh Plants</h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">What&#8217;s the difference between native plants and non-native plants?</h3>\n\n\n\n<p>A native plant is a species that naturally occurs and evolves in a specific geographic region or ecosystem. They are adapted to that region&#8217;s climate, soil, and other environmental conditions and have often co-evolved with local wildlife. They are essential to a healthy ecosystem.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p>In contrast, a non-native species is a plant that has been brought from another part of the world. These plants can negatively impact the environment, out-competing native plants, reducing biodiversity, and altering the ecological processes of the ecosystem.</p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">What plants are illegal in Pennsylvania?</h3>\n\n\n\n<p>The Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture has included Ravenna grass, glossy buckthorn, and common buckthorn in a list of noxious weeds. These plants cannot be legally sold or grown in the state.</p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Can I gather native plants from the wild?</h3>\n\n\n\n<p>It&#8217;s not recommended to gather native plants from the wild, and in some cases, you aren&#8217;t legally permitted to. Transporting native plants is a delicate process, so experts recommend that you purchase them from a nursery certified in dealing with and handling native plants.</p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">What other plants are native to Pennsylvania?</h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Other <a href=\"http://wikilawn.com/lawn-care/pa/best-native-plants-pennsylvania/\">native plants of Pennsylvania</a> include:&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>Pennsylvania Sedge</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Swamp Milkweed</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Wild Bergamot</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Canada Goldenrod</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Cardinal Flower</li>\n\n\n\n<li>Heartleaf Foamflower</li>\n</ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"find\">Where to Find Native Plants in Pittsburgh</h2>\n\n\n\n<p>If you want to enrich your Pittsburgh backyard with native plants, there are several places you can find them; local nurseries, garden centers, online nurseries, and seed companies, for example.&nbsp;</p>\n\n\n\n<p>Check out these plant nurseries recommended by the <a href=\"https://www.panativeplantsociety.org/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Native Plant Society of Pennsylvania:&nbsp;</a></p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"https://www.ernstseed.com/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Ernst Seeds</a></li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"http://aswp.org/pages/native-plant-nursery-at-beechwood\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Audubon Society of Western Pennsylvania</a></li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https://www.rustbeltnatives.com/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Rust Belt Natives</a></li>\n</ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Considering native plants as the main beauty of your garden is one step closer to a final landscaping design project. Be sure to consider low-maintenance landscaping ideas and the <a href=\"https://www.wikilawn.com/lawn-care/pa/pittsburgh/best-grass-types-pittsburgh/\">best grass types</a> for Pittsburgh for a healthy lawn.&nbsp;<br></p>\n\n\n\n<p>If you would like to have a beautiful backyard lawn and need the help of a professional, connect with a <a href=\"https://www.wikilawn.com/lawn-care/pa/pittsburgh/\">local lawn care pro</a> in your area.</p>\n\n\n\n<p>Main Photo Credit: Phipps Conservatory, Pittsburgh / <a href=\"https://www.flickr.com/photos/iip-photo-archive/41054332792\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">GPA Photo Archive</a> / Flickr / <a href=\"https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">CC BY 2.0</a></p>\n","title":"11 Best Native Plants for Pittsburgh","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.4962593516209477,"src":"/static/872233a56978bd1b8bc584509631c9af/1789c/Phipps-Conservatory-Sunken-Garden-Pittsburgh-Pennsylvania.jpg","srcSet":"/static/872233a56978bd1b8bc584509631c9af/107df/Phipps-Conservatory-Sunken-Garden-Pittsburgh-Pennsylvania.jpg 320w,\n/static/872233a56978bd1b8bc584509631c9af/293e9/Phipps-Conservatory-Sunken-Garden-Pittsburgh-Pennsylvania.jpg 500w,\n/static/872233a56978bd1b8bc584509631c9af/f2cbb/Phipps-Conservatory-Sunken-Garden-Pittsburgh-Pennsylvania.jpg 800w,\n/static/872233a56978bd1b8bc584509631c9af/1789c/Phipps-Conservatory-Sunken-Garden-Pittsburgh-Pennsylvania.jpg 960w,\n/static/872233a56978bd1b8bc584509631c9af/c26c2/Phipps-Conservatory-Sunken-Garden-Pittsburgh-Pennsylvania.jpg 1200w","srcWebp":"/static/872233a56978bd1b8bc584509631c9af/1dd6e/Phipps-Conservatory-Sunken-Garden-Pittsburgh-Pennsylvania.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/872233a56978bd1b8bc584509631c9af/67b76/Phipps-Conservatory-Sunken-Garden-Pittsburgh-Pennsylvania.webp 320w,\n/static/872233a56978bd1b8bc584509631c9af/8df11/Phipps-Conservatory-Sunken-Garden-Pittsburgh-Pennsylvania.webp 500w,\n/static/872233a56978bd1b8bc584509631c9af/98a65/Phipps-Conservatory-Sunken-Garden-Pittsburgh-Pennsylvania.webp 800w,\n/static/872233a56978bd1b8bc584509631c9af/1dd6e/Phipps-Conservatory-Sunken-Garden-Pittsburgh-Pennsylvania.webp 960w,\n/static/872233a56978bd1b8bc584509631c9af/3cc96/Phipps-Conservatory-Sunken-Garden-Pittsburgh-Pennsylvania.webp 1200w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"11 Best Native Plants for Pittsburgh","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":"Choose from these 11 beautiful and eco-friendly native plant species for your Pittsburgh landscape. Discover buying locations and care tips."}}}],"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/43/","nextPageLink":"/blog/page/45/","currentPage":44}}}