![\"Blue](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Virginia-Bluebells-Mertensia-virginica.jpg\")
Virginia homeowners are no stranger to the natural beauty of the Old Dominion State. One of the best ways to complement the scenic landscapes in Virginia’s capital region is by planting the best native plants for Richmond, which provide numerous benefits to both the environment and local wildlife. Why plant native plants in Richmond? Here […]
\n","content":"\nVirginia homeowners are no stranger to the natural beauty of the Old Dominion State. One of the best ways to complement the scenic landscapes in Virginia’s capital region is by planting the best native plants for Richmond, which provide numerous benefits to both the environment and local wildlife.
\n\n\n\nWhy plant native plants in Richmond? Here are a few reasons:
\n\n\n\nChoosing to plant native plant species in your garden ensures you’ll create a stunning and vibrant environment for your family and the local community.
In this article, we’ll cover:
Virginia bluebells are charming woodland wildflowers that are perfect for shady areas in your home garden. They display delicate bell-shaped, blue-violet blooms that create a serene atmosphere. As a spring ephemeral, Virginia bluebells bring early-season color and joy to your garden, attracting pollinators such as bees and butterflies. Their graceful presence adds a touch of Richmond’s natural beauty to your outdoor space.
\n\n\n\nPlant type: Herbaceous
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 3 to 8
\n\n\n\nSun: Partial shade to full shade
\n\n\n\nSoil: Chalk, clay, loam, sand; acid, alkaline, neutral; moist but well-drained soils
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFragrance: Light and Sweet
\n\n\n\nBloom time: March to June
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Moderate
\n\n\n\nMature height: 1 to 2 feet
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Toxic to humans, dogs, horses, and cattle; can be fatal when consumed in large amounts
\n\n\n\nMaintenance: Low
\n\n\n\n![\"Red](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Red-Columbine-Aquilegia-canadensis.jpg\")
Whether you’re admiring the landscape along the Virginia Capital Trail or in your own backyard, the red columbine is a showstopper. Its vibrant red and yellow flowers add a touch of bold color to your garden, attracting hummingbirds and butterflies.
\n\n\n\nThis native perennial is a delightful addition to any Richmond garden, thriving in woodland edges and rock gardens. As a low-maintenance plant that tolerates various soil types, red columbine makes it easy to add a splash of color to your outdoor haven.
\n\n\n\nPlant type: Herbaceous
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 3 to 8
\n\n\n\nSun: Full sun to partial shade
\n\n\n\nSoil: Clay, silt, or sandy soil that’s well-drained, moist, dry-ish
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nBloom time: February to July
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Weekly or whenever soil is completely dry
\n\n\n\nMature height: 1 to 3 feet
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Moderately flammable/risk of fire
\n\n\n\nMaintenance: Low; deadhead blooms as needed, cut back in late summer
\n\n\n\n![\"Yellow](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/American-Witch-Hazel-Hamamelis-virginiana.jpg\")
If you’ve ever visited the Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden in Richmond, you may have encountered the enchanting American witch hazel. This large, deciduous shrub features fragrant, ribbon-like yellow flowers that bloom in late fall to early winter when most other plants have lost their leaves. Witch hazel not only adds year-round interest to your garden but also provides essential habitat for birds and other wildlife.
\n\n\n\nPlant type: Shrub/Tree
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 3 to 8
\n\n\n\nSun: Full sun, partial shade, full shade
\n\n\n\nSoil: Clay, loam, sandy soils
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFragrance: Sweet
\n\n\n\nBloom time: September to December
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Moderate
\n\n\n\nMature height: 15 to 20 feet tall
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Large doses may cause liver problems in humans
\n\n\n\nMaintenance: Low; prune in spring to control its shape and size
\n\n\n\n![\"White](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Sweetbay-Magnolia-Magnolia-virginiana.jpg\")
Sweetbay magnolia is a magnificent native perennial that looks right at home in the scenic gardens of Richmond’s historic neighborhoods. This medium-sized, semi-evergreen tree showcases creamy-white, lemon-scented flowers in late spring and early summer.
\n\n\n\nIts elegant, glossy leaves provide a lush backdrop for other plants in your landscape. As a versatile and adaptable species, the sweetbay magnolia thrives in both full sun and partial shade, making it a beloved choice for Richmond gardens.
\n\n\n\nPlant type: Shrub/Tree
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 5 to 10
\n\n\n\nSun: Full sun to partial shade
\n\n\n\nSoil: Clay, loam, sandy soils
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFragrance: Lemon
\n\n\n\nBloom time: April to July
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Moderate
\n\n\n\nMature height: 10 to 35 feet
\n\n\n\nMaintenance: Low
\n\n\n\nSwamp azalea produces fragrant, trumpet-shaped flowers in shades of pink and white that are sure to captivate visitors to your garden. This native shrub is an excellent choice for wetter areas of your landscape, such as rain gardens or pond edges, where it can help prevent erosion. This stunning plant adds a touch of Southern charm to your outdoor space while supporting local pollinators.
\n\n\n\nPlant type: Shrub
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 3 to 9
\n\n\n\nSun: Full sun to partial shade
\n\n\n\nSoil: Well-draining, moist soil; loam and sand
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFragrance: Spicy and Sweet
\n\n\n\nBloom time: May to August
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Moderate
\n\n\n\nMature height: 5 to 15 feet tall
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Toxic to humans and animals if ingested
\n\n\n\nMaintenance: Low
\n\n\n\n![\"Small](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Butterfly-Weed-Asclepias-tuberosa.jpg\")
Butterfly weed is a favorite among both butterflies and homeowners alike. With its brilliant orange flowers and upright growth habit, Butterfly Weed makes a bold statement in any Richmond garden. In addition to its beauty, this drought-tolerant plant is an essential host for Monarch butterflies, helping to support their declining populations while adding a touch of beauty to your landscape.
\n\n\n\nPlant type: Herb
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 3 to 9
\n\n\n\nSun: Full sun
\n\n\n\nSoil: Clay, loam, sandy soils
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFragrance: Vanilla
\n\n\n\nBloom time: May to September
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Low
\n\n\n\nMature height: 1 to 2 feet
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Toxic to humans, dogs, cats, and livestock
\n\n\n\nMaintenance: Low
\n\n\n\nMountain laurel is a perennial shrub often found in forests and mountain tops. It features intricate, cup-shaped flowers in shades of pink and white that bloom in late spring. Its leathery, dark green leaves provide year-round interest, and its dense growth habit makes it an excellent choice for hedges or privacy screens. Bring the charm of Virginia’s mountainous landscapes to your Richmond garden by planting mountain laurel.
\n\n\n\nPlant type: Shrub
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 5 to 9
\n\n\n\nSun: Partial shade
\n\n\n\nSoil: Cool, moist rocky or sandy soils
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nBloom time: April to July
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Low
\n\n\n\nMature height: Up to about 35 feet tall when growing as a tree; usually shrub-like and much shorter
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Highly toxic and may be fatal to humans if eaten
\n\n\n\nMaintenance: Low
\n\n\n\n![\"White](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Flowering-Dogwood-Cornus-florida.jpg\")
As Virginia’s state tree, the flowering dogwood holds a special place in the hearts of Richmond residents. With its showy, white or pink blooms in spring, this native tree is a beloved sight in historic neighborhoods and public parks alike.
\n\n\n\nIn addition to its stunning springtime display, the flowering dogwood offers year-round interest with its red berries in the fall and vibrant red-purple foliage in winter. By incorporating this elegant tree into your landscape, you’ll be celebrating Virginia’s rich heritage while creating a garden retreat that attracts birds and other wildlife.
\n\n\n\nPlant type: Tree
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 5 to 9
\n\n\n\nSun: Grows best in partial shade but can tolerate full sun
\n\n\n\nSoil: Organically rich, moist, acidic soils
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFragrance: Sweet floral scent
\n\n\n\nBloom time: March to June
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Moderate
\n\n\n\nMature height: 15 to 30 feet, sometimes reaching up to 40 feet
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Fruit is poisonous to humans
\n\n\n\nMaintenance: Low
\n\n\n\n![\"White](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/rsz_11wild_hydrangea_hydrangea_arborescens.jpg\")
Wild hydrangea produces clusters of creamy-white flowers throughout the summer, creating a delightful contrast against its deep green foliage. Wild hydrangea is a low-maintenance and adaptable plant and it’s the perfect addition to woodland gardens or mixed borders in your Richmond landscape.
\n\n\n\nPlant type: Shrub
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 3 to 9
\n\n\n\nSun: Partial shade
\n\n\n\nSoil: Rich, well-draining, moist soils
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFragrance: Fruity
\n\n\n\nBloom time: May to August
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Moderate
\n\n\n\nMature height: 3 to 5 feet tall
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: May cause dizziness, chest pain, gastrointestinal distress if ingested
\n\n\n\nMaintenance: Low
\n\n\n\n![\"Red](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Coral-Honeysuckle-Lonicera-sempervirens.jpg\")
Coral honeysuckle features vibrant, trumpet-shaped, red-orange flowers that attract hummingbirds and butterflies to your garden. Its twining habit makes it a versatile choice for covering fences, trellises, or arbors, adding vertical interest and lively color to your landscape. With its long bloom period, coral honeysuckle adds a touch of artistic flair and natural beauty to any Richmond garden.
\n\n\n\nPlant type: Vine
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 4 to 9
\n\n\n\nSun: Full sun to partial shade
\n\n\n\nSoil: Acclimates to many soil types; clay, sand, loam, slightly acidic, well-drained soils
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nBloom time: March to June
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Moderate
\n\n\n\nMature height: 15 to 20 feet
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Mildly toxic to dogs, cats, and humans
\n\n\n\nMaintenance: Low
\n\n\n\nInterested in planting native plants in your garden? To properly choose the right plants for your Richmond landscape, consider the following factors:
\n\n\n\nAdditionally, consult resources like the Virginia Native Plant Society (VNPS) and plantvirginianatives.org for expert advice and recommendations tailored to your specific region. Richmond falls within USDA Hardiness Zone 7, so it’s essential to select plants that are well-suited for this zone.
\n\n\n\nYes, you can mix native and non-native plants in your garden. However, it is essential to select non-native plants that are compatible with Richmond’s climate and aren’t recognized as invasive in the region. Furthermore, prioritize planting native plants in your garden to promote biodiversity and support local wildlife.
\n\n\n\nYes, many native plants can be successfully grown in containers or small spaces in Richmond. When selecting native plants for container gardening or limited spaces, consider species with smaller growth habits or those that can be pruned to maintain a compact size.
\n\n\n\nNative plants in Richmond are generally low-maintenance but still require basic care for optimal health and appearance. Ensure proper watering during dry periods or establishment phases, prune to remove dead or damaged branches and maintain shape, and apply organic mulch to retain soil moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate temperature. Research specific care requirements for each native plant species to tailor your approach accordingly.
\n\n\n\nPlants native to Virginia’s Capital Region include:
\n\n\n\nIncorporating native plants into your landscape offers numerous benefits, such as promoting local ecosystems, supporting pollinators, and providing low-maintenance landscaping options. To achieve an even more stunning garden, consider integrating the best grass types for your region alongside native plants.
\n\n\n\nIf you’re ready to include native plant species in your outdoor oasis, visit the VNPS website to locate the closest native plant nursery to you.
\n\n\n\nFor a lush, green landscape year-round, let WikiLawn connect you with local lawn care professionals who can expertly handle pruning, trimming, mowing, and edging to keep your yard looking its best.
\n\n\n\nMain Photo by: Zeynel Cebeci / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0
\n","title":"10 Best Native Plants for Richmond, VA","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.391304347826087,"src":"/static/738fd48db7bf623bd1a01555dd1c735a/1789c/Best-native-plant-for-richmond.jpg","srcSet":"/static/738fd48db7bf623bd1a01555dd1c735a/107df/Best-native-plant-for-richmond.jpg 320w,\n/static/738fd48db7bf623bd1a01555dd1c735a/293e9/Best-native-plant-for-richmond.jpg 500w,\n/static/738fd48db7bf623bd1a01555dd1c735a/f2cbb/Best-native-plant-for-richmond.jpg 800w,\n/static/738fd48db7bf623bd1a01555dd1c735a/1789c/Best-native-plant-for-richmond.jpg 960w,\n/static/738fd48db7bf623bd1a01555dd1c735a/a2a79/Best-native-plant-for-richmond.jpg 1024w","srcWebp":"/static/738fd48db7bf623bd1a01555dd1c735a/1dd6e/Best-native-plant-for-richmond.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/738fd48db7bf623bd1a01555dd1c735a/67b76/Best-native-plant-for-richmond.webp 320w,\n/static/738fd48db7bf623bd1a01555dd1c735a/8df11/Best-native-plant-for-richmond.webp 500w,\n/static/738fd48db7bf623bd1a01555dd1c735a/98a65/Best-native-plant-for-richmond.webp 800w,\n/static/738fd48db7bf623bd1a01555dd1c735a/1dd6e/Best-native-plant-for-richmond.webp 960w,\n/static/738fd48db7bf623bd1a01555dd1c735a/7aa54/Best-native-plant-for-richmond.webp 1024w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"10 Best Native Plants for Richmond, VA | Wikilawn","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":"Explore the top native plants for Richmond, Virginia landscapes and find the right plants for your garden, front yard, or outdoor living space."}},"relatedPosts":[{"node":{"id":"367475e8-37e1-57ee-b643-d3aca209d1ce","slug":"best-native-plants-tulsa","path":"/lawn-care/ok/tulsa/best-native-plants-tulsa/","status":"publish","template":"","format":"standard","author":{"description":"Caleb Leonard is a freelance writer and marketing professional. A graduate of the University of North Texas, his interests include gardening, podcasts, and studying Spanish.","name":"Caleb Leonard","id":"1c332919-8490-5383-95ec-6ae90855221c","path":"/author/caleb-leonard/","avatar_urls":{"wordpress_96":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/4ac26f4a5bb894df76f4af23dd100da4?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":"105f656f-2e37-56d3-ad23-147a8a48d26a","name":"Tulsa","count":2,"path":"/category/lawn-care/ok/tulsa/"}],"date":"April 6th, 2023","excerpt":"Nestled between the Ozarks and the Great Plains, Tulsa has a lush, hilly landscape that produces beautiful native flora. This article highlights the best native plants for Tulsa, OK. Here we will discuss the benefits of integrating native plants into your landscape, highlight a few native species, and answer some frequently asked questions about native […]
\n","content":"\nNestled between the Ozarks and the Great Plains, Tulsa has a lush, hilly landscape that produces beautiful native flora. This article highlights the best native plants for Tulsa, OK. Here we will discuss the benefits of integrating native plants into your landscape, highlight a few native species, and answer some frequently asked questions about native planting.
\n\n\n\nNative plants have had thousands of years to develop in a particular ecosystem. With that much local experience, the native plants covered in this article need virtually no assistance to thrive in Tulsa’s temperate climate.
\n\n\n\nOther perks of growing native plants include:
\n\n\n\nIn this article, we’ll cover the following:
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n![\"White](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Bluestar-Amsonia-tabernaemontana.jpg\")
Photo Credit: David J. Stang / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0
\n\n\n\nBluestar is a medium-sized shrub that compliments the landscape of Oklahoma with its four-season interest. This shrub produces clusters of small powder-blue flowers from March until May. The star-shaped blooms attract pollinators like hummingbirds, butterflies, and carpenter bees. This herbaceous perennial has soft green stems and leaves that turn a buttery yellow in the fall.
\n\n\n\nBluestar prefers full sun but tolerates partial shade. It has a vase-shaped growth pattern, with wax stems that are toxic to ingest, so any whitetail deer that pop in won’t hang around. This shrub is not prone to disease and is available in dwarf varieties, such as ‘Blue ice,’ if you need to landscape a small space.
\n\n\n\nPlant type: Perennial shrub
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 3 to 9
\n\n\n\nSun: Full sun/partial shade
\n\n\n\nSoil: Loamy, moist soil
\n\n\n\nBloom time: March-May
\n\n\n\nFragrance: Sweet, delicate scent
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Needs frequent watering (should never dry out)
\n\n\n\nMature height: 24 to 36 inches
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Toxic (dogs, cats, humans)
\n\n\n\nMaintenance: Low. Cut one-third of the plant back each spring.
\n\n\n\n![\"Bee](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Coneflower-Echinacea.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Wallpaper Flare
\n\n\n\nEchinacea has been used for medicinal purposes for centuries, but Tulsa residents probably recognize this distinct perennial as a local wildflower. Named after the Greek word ‘echinus,’ which means hedgehog, this flower has a spikey, cone-shaped center that attracts bees, butterflies, and other pollinators.
\n\n\n\nThese native flowers grow 2 to 4 feet tall and produce blooms from July through September. As the plant matures, its petals droop, highlighting the coneflower’s signature cone shape. A sun-loving flower, this plant is accustomed to the fertile loam of the prairies; however, it will tolerate dryer, sandy soils.
\n\n\n\nThe coneflower is available in yellow, red, orange, purple, and white, with purple being the most common. Plant a variety of colors for a cheerful springtime look, and be sure they get plenty of sunlight.
\n\n\n\nSome coneflower varieties worth exploring:
\n\n\n\nMost coneflowers rebloom without deadheading, which adds to their low-maintenance appeal.
\n\n\n\nPlant type: Flowering perennial
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 4 to 9
\n\n\n\nSun: Full sun
\n\n\n\nSoil: Prefers fertile loam, tolerates clay
\n\n\n\nBloom time: June to August
\n\n\n\nFragrance: Light and sweet
\n\n\n\nWater needs: 1 inch of water weekly.
\n\n\n\nMature height: 2 to 4 feet
\n\n\n\nMaintenance: Low. Water weekly, add a layer of compost in the spring. Cut back in the fall.
\n\n\n\n![\"Red](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Indian-Blanket-Gaillardia-pulchella.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Jim Evans / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0
\n\n\n\nIndian blanket is Oklahoma’s state wildflower. This colorful flower gets its name from how its blooms blanket the ground with vibrant color patterns often found in Native American weaving baskets. A member of the daisy family, this multi-tonal flowering plant has a reddish-pink center that bleeds to yellow towards the tips of the petals.
\n\n\n\nEasy to care for and drought-tolerant, Indian blanket blooms from May through July, and occasionally the colorful blooms continue into the fall. Pollinators are drawn to these flowers’ colors and sweet fragrances, making them an excellent addition to butterfly gardens.
\n\n\n\nPlant type: Flowering annual
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 3 to 9
\n\n\n\nSun: Full sun
\n\n\n\nSoil: Poor soils, slightly acidic, well-drained soil.
\n\n\n\nFragrance: Depending on the habitat, the scents range from licorice to bubblegum.
\n\n\n\nBloom time: May to August
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Water daily during germination. Then after blooms appear, you may water once or twice a week when the ground dries out.
\n\n\n\nMature height: 1.5 to 2 feet
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: aphids and thrips, Aster yellow
\n\n\n\nMaintenance: No maintenance is required.
\n\n\n\nThis list of native plants would be incomplete without mentioning Oklahoma’s state tree, the eastern redbud. Favored for its stout stature and brilliant violet blooms in spring, the Oklahoma redbud has heart-shaped leaves that turn golden yellow in the fall. This tree adds four-season interest to Tulsa’s hilly forests. This redbud is also remarkably drought-tolerant.
\n\n\n\nThis deer-resistant tree is excellent for smaller yards in need of visual interest. As one of the first trees to bloom each year, the redbud’s bloom proclaims spring’s arrival. Due to its deep root systems, the eastern redbud can withstand Tulsa’s harsh winters.
\n\n\n\nPlant type: Flowering deciduous tree
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 6 to 9
\n\n\n\nSun: Full sun, part shade
\n\n\n\nSoil: Clay, loam, sand
\n\n\n\nFragrance: Sweet pea
\n\n\n\nSeasons of interest: Purple blooms in spring, and leaves turn yellow in the fall.
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Minimal.
\n\n\n\nMature height: 20 to 25 feet
\n\n\n\nMaintenance: Fertilize annually and add mulch. Prune after blooming as needed.
\n\n\n\n![\"Purple](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Purple-Passion-Vine-Passiflora-incarnata.jpg\")
Photo Credit: PxHere
\n\n\n\nPassion flowers may be synonymous with the tropics, but the purple passion vine stems from Texas and Oklahoma. This tenacious vine can grow up to 25 feet long and produces unique purple flowers that add a regal touch to arches and trellises. In addition to producing flowers, this vine produces edible fruit, which is used to relieve anxiety and sleep problems.
\n\n\n\nThis low-maintenance vine is considered drought-tolerant; however, it needs regular moisture to produce flowers and fruit from mid-summer through fall. The uniquely shaped flowers have spaced-out petals surrounded by a dazzling array of thin, crimped, hair-like segments that lend an exotic feel to any Oklahoma garden. The vine blooms spring through the fall, though most blooms last only 24 hours.
\n\n\n\nPlant type: Herbaceous flowering vine
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 7 to 11
\n\n\n\nSun: Full sun/ partial shade
\n\n\n\nSoil: Rich, non-saline clays, loams, and san
\n\n\n\nFragrance: Sweet, tropical. Reminiscent of grapes.
\n\n\n\nBloom time: May to August
\n\n\n\nWater needs: 1 inch to 1.5 inches of water every week.
\n\n\n\nMature height: 8 feet tall, 25 feet long
\n\n\n\nMaintenance: Fertilize in spring, prune in early spring.
\n\n\n\n![\"Orange](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Butterfly-Milkweed-Asclepias-tuberosa.jpg\")
Photo Credit: PxFuel
\n\n\n\nIf you want to lure butterflies to your garden, try planting butterfly milkweed. Monarch butterflies only lay their eggs on this wildflower, which the caterpillars use as a food source while growing. Twenty-five milkweed cultivars are native to Oklahoma, so gardeners should have no problem selecting the perfect native specimen for their lawns.
\n\n\n\nDon’t be deterred by the term “weed’–– this plant produces clusters of small, orange, star-shaped flowers that bring a burst of unexpected color to any landscape. This herbaceous perennial loves sunlight and is drought-tolerant. Thanks to its long tap root, this plant only needs an inch of water a week.
\n\n\n\nThis plant releases seed pods in the fall and can become invasive. To stop the unwanted spread around your home garden, you’ll need to cut off the seed pods in late summer.
\n\n\n\nPlant type: Herbaceous perennial
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 3 to 9
\n\n\n\nSun: Full sun
\n\n\n\nSoil: Dry soil, well-drained
\n\n\n\nFragrance: Sweet vanilla
\n\n\n\nBloom time: June to August
\n\n\n\nWater needs: 1 inch per week
\n\n\n\nMature height: 2 feet
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Toxic if ingested by people, pets, and livestock.
\n\n\n\nMaintenance: Avoid overwatering established plants. Do not fertilize.
\n\n\n\n![\"Green](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Bitternut-Hickory-Carya-cordiformis-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Plant Image Library / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 2.0
\n\n\n\nA deciduous tree that bridges the divide between the hilly forests and prairie land around Tulsa, the bitternut hickory is among the tallest trees in the hickory family. This tree reaches heights of 60 to 80 feet and provides excellent shade. Its long, narrow leaves with serrated edges fade from green to bright yellow each fall. This hickory holds its spectacular foliage longer than most trees.
\n\n\n\nThe bitternut tree is named after the bitter-tasting nuts it produces when it blooms each April. Male flower clusters bond together to make green, rope-like tendrils called catkins, while female flowers produce the bitter fruit after which the tree is named.
\n\n\n\nThe nuts of the bitternut hickory might be too bitter for the human palate, but they are a favorite among squirrels, raccoons, foxes, chipmunks, and rabbits.
\n\n\n\nPlant type: Deciduous perennial tree
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 4 to 9
\n\n\n\nSun: Full sun/ partial shade
\n\n\n\nSoil: Loam and well-drained quartz sands
\n\n\n\nBloom time: April
\n\n\n\nWater needs: an inch per week
\n\n\n\nMature height: 60 to 80 feet
\n\n\n\nMaintenance: Avoid overwatering established plants.
\n\n\n\n![\"White](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Wild-Hyacinth-Camassia-scilloides.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Jay Sturner / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\nA clump-forming bulbous perennial, the wild hyacinth produces upright clusters of small flowers called racemes. These star-shaped flowers are mostly white but can also be found in lavender, pink, and blue.
\n\n\n\nThey reseed themselves; however, they are easier to grow from bulbs. Plant the bulbs 4 to 6 inches apart for best results. Like lilies, irises, and other blossoming springtime bulbs, the wild hyacinth has a relatively short bloom time.
\n\n\n\nAfter your hyacinths have finished flowering, remove their blooms, but do not remove their foliage. In order to produce next year’s blooms, bulbs need their leaves to gather energy. Foliage will naturally die back at the end of spring. To prevent fungal diseases, remove the leaves once they have turned brown.
\n\n\n\nPlant type: Perennial wildflower
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 4 to 8
\n\n\n\nSun: Full sun/ partial shade
\n\n\n\nSoil: Rich, acidic soils, chalk, loam, sandy soil.
\n\n\n\nBloom time: May to June
\n\n\n\nScent: Heavy, earthy, and sweet.
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Regular moisture during the growing season. Water when the soil is dry at a depth of 3 inches.
\n\n\n\nMature height: 2 feet
\n\n\n\nMaintenance: Avoid overwatering established plants.
\n\n\n\nTulsa, Oklahoma, sits within zone 7 on the USDA hardiness zone map, meaning wintertime temps can drop to negative 18 degrees Fahrenheit. Native plants are accustomed to eastern Oklahoma’s winters and will return to life each spring.
\n\n\n\nAll plants have unique sun, soil, and water requirements, so consider these needs when planting. Also, consider your plant’s mature size when spacing your specimens to avoid overcrowding.
\n\n\n\nAsk your local plant nursery about resources for native seeds and plants. You can even find landscapers who specialize in native plant gardening if you want a professional to set up your eco-friendly yard.
\n\n\n\n While digging up a plant from a nearby meadow or prairie may be tempting, transplanting a wild specimen is not a good idea. Digging up native plants disrupts local ecosystems. Plus, some native species are endangered, and transplanting them risks killing them.
Autumn and early spring are the best times to plant native plants because the cooler temperatures and increased precipitation make for a gentler introduction to the new environment.
The beauty of native plants is their low-maintenance needs. Even before planting, most native species need no special treatment. You may aerate the soil and add 0.5 to 1 inch of compost to the soil, but no preparation is necessary.
It can be difficult to find native plants at national garden warehouse retailers. Check out these local nurseries for native Tulsa species.
\n\n\n\nEven though Oklahoma’s native plants don’t need much attention, your landscape may begin to look a little too wild without partial interference. Thankfully, a local lawn care pro can tame your yard’s turf, hedges, and edging to achieve the manicured look.
\n\n\n\nMain Photo by: Andrew C / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY 2.0
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\n","content":"\nCats and dogs are curious by nature and will sniff or lick the chemicals you spray on your lawn. That’s why you need to know how to choose pet-safe weed killers.
\n\n\n\nRather than worry about an emergency trip to the vet, we’ll tell you how to select the safest weed killers for your lawn.
\n\n\n\nContents:
\n\n\n\nMany weed and grass killers contain toxic chemicals, which can cause serious harm to your pet. Tufts University School of Veterinary Medicine found that using lawn chemicals, like glyphosate, increases a dog’s chance of developing cancer by up to 70%.
\n\n\n\nWhen looking for a pet-safe weed killer, pay close attention to the labels and check the active ingredients, certifications, types of weeds the product treats, and whether it’s a weed killer or weed preventer. Even if a product is labeled as “organic” or “pet-safe,” you still need to check what’s in it.
\n\n\n\nSome ingredients commonly found in animal-friendly herbicides include:
\n\n\n\nIf a product says it’s certified, do a little research and verify the organization or governing body that issued the certification. Some reputable organizations include Organic Materials Review Institute (OMRI) and California Certified Organic Farmers (CCOF), which are private, non-profit groups.
\n\n\n\nYou should avoid using any chemical weed killers containing:
\n\n\n\nSeveral companies like Get Sunday, Preen, Green Gobbler, and Dr. Kirchner specialize in effective pet-safe weed killers that won’t harm your grass or flowers.
\n\n\n\nYou can make several homemade weed killers and avoid exposing your dog or cat to harsh chemicals. Make sure your homemade weed killer doesn’t contain anything that could harm your pet. Safe options include:
\n\n\n\n1. What are the symptoms of weed killer poisoning in pets?
\n\n\n\nThe signs to watch for include:
\n\n\n\nIf your pet displays these symptoms and you suspect they were exposed to toxic chemicals, contact your vet immediately.
\n\n\n\n2. How long should I wait to let my dogs on the lawn after applying a weed killer?
\n\n\n\nWait at least 24 hours to make sure the product has completely dried before letting your kids, cats, and dogs play on it. Watering your lawn the next day will help the products dissipate.
\n\n\n\n3. What do I do after spraying weed killer to keep my pet safe?
\n\n\n\nWait a couple of days and pull up the pesky weeds. Make sure you get the root. If the roots are intact, the weeds can grow back. Wait at least two days after applying weed killer to mow.
\n\n\n\n4. Are there any downsides to pet-friendly weed killers?
\n\n\n\nYes. They don’t work as quickly, can be less effective on certain weeds, and vinegar-based solutions can increase the salt levels in your soil.
\n\n\n\n5. How do pet-safe weed killers work?
\n\n\n\nMost ingredients like vinegar, salt, and soap, dry out the plant, and corn gluten meal prevents seeds from sprouting.
Got a yard full of weeds but little time to get rid of them? We can help you find an eco-garden pro or lawn care professional who can handle the problem while you and your furry friend relax.
Main photo credit: Pxhere
\n","title":"How to Choose Pet-Safe Weed Killers","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.5018773466833542,"src":"/static/c42c657baa31a5ab6e3a5f8f035e5c31/1789c/rsz_white-puppy-dog-cute-alone-isolated-1003821-pxherecom.jpg","srcSet":"/static/c42c657baa31a5ab6e3a5f8f035e5c31/107df/rsz_white-puppy-dog-cute-alone-isolated-1003821-pxherecom.jpg 320w,\n/static/c42c657baa31a5ab6e3a5f8f035e5c31/293e9/rsz_white-puppy-dog-cute-alone-isolated-1003821-pxherecom.jpg 500w,\n/static/c42c657baa31a5ab6e3a5f8f035e5c31/f2cbb/rsz_white-puppy-dog-cute-alone-isolated-1003821-pxherecom.jpg 800w,\n/static/c42c657baa31a5ab6e3a5f8f035e5c31/1789c/rsz_white-puppy-dog-cute-alone-isolated-1003821-pxherecom.jpg 960w,\n/static/c42c657baa31a5ab6e3a5f8f035e5c31/c26c2/rsz_white-puppy-dog-cute-alone-isolated-1003821-pxherecom.jpg 1200w","srcWebp":"/static/c42c657baa31a5ab6e3a5f8f035e5c31/1dd6e/rsz_white-puppy-dog-cute-alone-isolated-1003821-pxherecom.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/c42c657baa31a5ab6e3a5f8f035e5c31/67b76/rsz_white-puppy-dog-cute-alone-isolated-1003821-pxherecom.webp 320w,\n/static/c42c657baa31a5ab6e3a5f8f035e5c31/8df11/rsz_white-puppy-dog-cute-alone-isolated-1003821-pxherecom.webp 500w,\n/static/c42c657baa31a5ab6e3a5f8f035e5c31/98a65/rsz_white-puppy-dog-cute-alone-isolated-1003821-pxherecom.webp 800w,\n/static/c42c657baa31a5ab6e3a5f8f035e5c31/1dd6e/rsz_white-puppy-dog-cute-alone-isolated-1003821-pxherecom.webp 960w,\n/static/c42c657baa31a5ab6e3a5f8f035e5c31/3cc96/rsz_white-puppy-dog-cute-alone-isolated-1003821-pxherecom.webp 1200w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"How to Choose Pet-Safe Weed Killers | Wikilawn","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":"You can avoid an expensive trip to the vet if you know how to choose pet-safe weed killers for your lawn."}}},{"node":{"id":"89583ed8-e7d1-5dc4-a061-3e0402e994bc","slug":"best-native-plants-grand-rapids","path":"/lawn-care/michigan/grand-rapids-mi/best-native-plants-grand-rapids/","status":"publish","template":"","format":"standard","author":{"description":"LaShonda Tucker is a freelance writer, poet, and spoken word artist in Atlanta. She earned her masters from the University of Georgia and enjoys playing her violin.","name":"LaShonda Tucker","id":"f7fdb6d3-a89a-5295-963a-aac47afa7cee","path":"/author/lashonda-tucker/","avatar_urls":{"wordpress_96":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/ce61747b62dbfb82f56a8611f2835988?s=96&d=mm&r=g"}},"categories":[{"id":"438713f2-daf7-5a75-a66f-7741f7e2b4cb","name":"Grand Rapids","count":2,"path":"/category/lawn-care/michigan/grand-rapids-mi/"},{"id":"5bb57152-2e9b-5822-a133-bc84c122adab","name":"Landscaping","count":42,"path":"/category/blog/landscaping/"},{"id":"75fb394d-179e-5e85-92bb-a24a339af8a6","name":"Michigan","count":12,"path":"/category/lawn-care/michigan/"}],"date":"April 9th, 2023","excerpt":"From the Frederik Meijer Gardens to the Blandford Nature Center, Grand Rapids is home to many beautiful landscapes. It’s easy to appreciate the variety of colors, sizes, shapes, and fragrances of the plants. The good news is that you can create the same environment in your yard with the best native plants for Grand Rapids. […]
\n","content":"\nFrom the Frederik Meijer Gardens to the Blandford Nature Center, Grand Rapids is home to many beautiful landscapes. It’s easy to appreciate the variety of colors, sizes, shapes, and fragrances of the plants. The good news is that you can create the same environment in your yard with the best native plants for Grand Rapids.
\n\n\n\nOnce you open your yard to native plants, you and the ecosystem will experience a range of benefits:
\n\n\n\nNative plants offer a variety of choices. From native wildflowers to native shrubs to perennials with pretty white flowers, it won’t be hard to find native species that will thrive in your West Michigan home landscape.
\n\n\n\nThis article will cover:
\n\n\n\n![\"closeup](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Red-Osier-Dogwood.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Joshua Mayer / Flickr / CC BY-SA 2.0
\n\n\n\nRed-osier dogwood is also called red twig dogwood. No doubt named because it is red and looks like a small tree limb or twig. It blooms in spring and summer and adds a splash of color to the cold Grand Rapids winters. It’s a favorite because it develops its beautiful bright color, which is usually red, in the fall and winter.
\n\n\n\nIt will be at home most anywhere, as it adapts to a wide range of soil types. If you’re looking to make a quick impression, you’ll appreciate how quickly this shrub grows. Red-osier dogwood is also functional; its roots help reduce erosion.
\n\n\n\nThis shrub offers a beautiful cluster of creamy white flowers that appear in late spring to early summer. Pollinators and butterflies stop by to admire the small petals, while birds feast on the berries.
\n\n\n\nIt requires full sun to partial shade, so a home with a few trees that allows in a moderate level of light will provide a warm welcome for the red-osier dogwood.
\n\n\n\nPlant type: Shrub
\n\n\n\nHardiness zones: 2 to 7
\n\n\n\nSun: Full sun to partial shade
\n\n\n\nSoil: Chalk, clay, loam, sand, moist, adaptable to a wide range of soils.
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nBloom time: Spring and summer
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Medium to high
\n\n\n\nMature height: 6 to 9 feet
\n\n\n\nMaintenance: Medium. Use a spade to root prune if you want to stop it from vigorously spreading. Prune in early spring to encourage new stem growth.
\n\n\n\n![\"Pink](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Swamp-Milkweed.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Lydia Fravel / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\nThis beautiful cluster of tiny, hot pink petals sits atop stems with long, erect leaves emerging on opposite sides. Swamp milkweed is commonly found in the wetlands and blooms between June and October. It’s poisonous in large quantities, so be sure to keep small children from giving it a taste test.
\n\n\n\nHummingbirds and butterflies are some of this flower’s biggest fans. Monarch butterflies depend on this perennial for survival. Swamp milkweed makes a great addition to rain gardens and butterfly gardens.
\n\n\n\nEven though swamp milkweed is usually found outlining ponds and streams, it adapts to drier conditions like loam and clay. The best home for this sappy weed is one that gets a lot of sunlight. The flower tolerates partial shade but thrives best when it can salute the sun.
\n\n\n\nPlant type: Flower
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 3 to 9
\n\n\n\nSun: Full sun to partial shade
\n\n\n\nSoil: Organically rich, slightly acidic, well-drained soil
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFragrance: Sweet smelling
\n\n\n\nBloom time: Midsummer to fall
\n\n\n\nWater needs: High
\n\n\n\nMature height: 4 to 6 feet
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Poisonous to humans and animals in large quantities
\n\n\n\nMaintenance: Low
\n\n\n\n![\"Nannyberry\"](\"https://www.lawnstarter.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/nannyberry-flowers-wendell-smith-cc20.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Wendell Smith / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
This plant’s berries are enjoyed by wildlife, birds, and humans, too. That is, if you can reach the berries. Nannyberry is a very large, tall shrub or a small tree. This plant is a Grand Rapids favorite because its dark berries are usually still around in the winter, and the berries attract wildlife and birds, too. Nannyberry’s creamy white flowers sprout in the spring.
\n\n\n\nNannyberry prefers full sun but will adjust to partial shade. If you have a shady yard, be on the lookout for mildew on your nannyberry. Other than that, it’s insect and disease tolerant. If you’re looking for a good, natural privacy screen, plant nannyberries as hedges. Nannyberry also works well as shrub borders and foundation plantings.
\n\n\n\nPlant type: Shrub or small tree
\n\n\n\nHardiness zones: 2 to 8
\n\n\n\nSun: Full sun to partial shade
\n\n\n\nSoil: Clay, loam, sand, moist, well-drained soil
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nBloom Time: May
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Medium
\n\n\n\nMature height: 10 to 20 feet
\n\n\n\nMaintenance: Low. Prune immediately after flowering.
\n\n\n\n![\"Orange](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/35788220756_6c924b709e_c-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: James St. John / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\nButterfly weed’s yellow and orange petals are a wonderful site for sore eyes and for bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds. Grand Rapids homeowners can give back to the ecosystem by planting this bright plant, as monarch butterflies depend on it for their existence.
\n\n\n\nIf you have poor soil, you’ll be happy to know butterfly weed isn’t picky. Although it prefers well-drained soils, it grows in dry, poor soils, too. This plant is drought-tolerant and easy to care for, but it may attract aphids. To get rid of aphids, hit the plants with a strong spray of water.
\n\n\n\nLike swamp milkweed, butterfly milkweed comes with some concerns. All parts of this perennial herb are considered poisonous. It can result in skin or eye irritation when touched. Be sure to handle this attractive plant with gloves, and plant it somewhere not easily accessible to pets and small children.
\n\n\n\nPlant type: Perennial herb
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 3 to 9
\n\n\n\nSun: Full sun to partial shade
\n\n\n\nSoil: Well-drained dry to mid-range soil moist. Loam, sand, or clay
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFragrance: Sweet vanilla fragrance
\n\n\n\nBloom time: May – September
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Low
\n\n\n\nMature height: 2 to 3 feet
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Poisonous to humans and pets
\n\n\n\nMaintenance: Low
\n\n\n\n![\"Many](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Black-eyed-Susan-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Pixnio
\n\n\n\nBlack-eyed Susan is appropriately named for its dark center and sunny disposition. With its long, yellow petals, it resembles a daisy. Young plants may attract snails and slugs, but other than that, black-eyed Susan has no major disease or pest problems. She was made for the Grand Rapids winters – young plants can withstand a little frost.
\n\n\n\nThis daisy look-alike is easy to grow and works well in borders or as an accent plant. Butterflies, pollinators, and birds flock to this ray of sunshine.
\n\n\n\nPlant type: Flower
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 3 to 9
\n\n\n\nSun: Full sun. Can tolerate some partial shade
\n\n\n\nSoil: Dry, moist, well-drained soils.
\n\n\n\nDuration: Annual, Perennial, or Biennial depending on growing conditions
\n\n\n\nFragrance: Sweet
\n\n\n\nBloom time: Early summer to early fall (Jun – Sept)
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Medium
\n\n\n\nMature height: 1 to 3 feet
\n\n\n\nMaintenance: Low. Black-eyed Susan requires about one inch of water weekly when first planted and is drought-resistant once established.
\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Virgins-Bower.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Melissa McMasters / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\nVirgin’s bower, also called the devil’s darning needles, is toxic to humans and pets. The strong bitter taste and mouth pain this vine causes humans when ingested is usually a quick and memorable warning that it’s not edible.
\n\n\n\nVirgin’s bower withstands occasional flooding and thrives best in soils that are rich and moist but well-drained. If you have a very shady yard and have been looking for a flowering vine that likes to climb high, look no further. Virgin Bower loves to wind around fences and up walls and trellises. If you’re looking for it to seed, be sure to get the female version. The male plant does not seed.
\n\n\n\nJust know that Virgin Bower likes to wrap around other plants and can invade the space of other vegetation, like shrubs. Pruning it in the spring can help manage its aggressive spread.
\n\n\n\nPlant type: Vine
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 3 to 8
\n\n\n\nSun: Partial sun
\n\n\n\nSoil: Organic-rich, well-drained loamy or silty soil
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFragrance: Sweet smelling
\n\n\n\nBloom time: July – September
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Medium to High
\n\n\n\nMature height: 12 to 20 feet
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Poisonous to humans and animals
\n\n\n\nMaintenance: Medium
\n\n\n\n![\"Little](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Little-Bluestem.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Montrealais / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY 3.0
\n\n\n\nLittle bluestem is not afraid to stick around through the harsh Grand Rapids winters. This ornamental grass provides cover for wildlife year-round. It has a blue-green color in the summer and a copper color that stands its ground through the winter. The leaves are yellow-orange in the fall.
\n\n\n\nIt’s drought-resistant once established and works well in a xeriscape garden or rain garden. This year-round colorful grass is low-maintenance and shares its seeds with small mammals and songbirds.
\n\n\n\nPlant type: Ornamental grass
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 3 to 9
\n\n\n\nSun: Full sun
\n\n\n\nSoil: Dry to moist, well-drained soils
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nBloom time: August – February
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Low
\n\n\n\nMature height: 2 to 4 feet
\n\n\n\nMaintenance: Low
\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Common-Boneset.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Fritzflohrreynolds / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 3.0
\n\n\n\nCommon boneset has been used to treat a variety of maladies, including constipation, fevers, and colds. Little white flowers appear in late summer and fall. Common boneset gives nectar to pollinators and butterflies and also attracts aphids, Lygus bugs, and leaf beetles.
\n\n\n\nThis flower is serious about its water consumption and grows best when the soil does not dry out. If you have a pond on your property, common boneset is a great addition. It works well next to ponds and in rain gardens.
\n\n\n\nAlthough common boneset has been used medicinally, it is considered toxic and should not be consumed.
\n\n\n\nPlant type: Flower
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 3 to 9
\n\n\n\nSun: Full sun to partial shade
\n\n\n\nSoil: Organic-rich moist to wet sandy or clay soils; though it can also tolerate dry soils.
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFragrance: Sweet, floral scent
\n\n\n\nBloom time: Late summer to early fall
\n\n\n\nWater needs: High
\n\n\n\nMature height: 3 to 5 feet
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Toxic if eaten.
\n\n\n\nMaintenance: Low
\n\n\n\n![\"a](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/9518319219_495c9ab151_o-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Joshua Mayer / Flickr / CC BY-SA 2.0
\n\n\n\nGrand Rapids homeowners can’t help but love New England aster. Starting from late summer to late fall, it blooms for at least six weeks. It grows up to six feet tall and is still around even when Grand Rapids temperatures get cooler.
\n\n\n\nThese strikingly beautiful bright pink flowers resemble daisies, but with slightly thinner petals. If your property is sometimes visited by deer or rabbits, New England aster is a great addition, as deer and rabbits prefer tastier treats. Butterflies and birds are quite pleased about this; there’s more New England aster for them to consume.
\n\n\n\nThis plant needs space for good airflow or it may develop diseases. It works well in cottage gardens and borders, just as long as it’s not crowded.
\n\n\n\nPlant type: Flower
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 4 to 8
\n\n\n\nSun: Full sun to partial shade
\n\n\n\nSoil: Clay, sandy, loamy
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nBloom time: Late summer – early fall
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Medium
\n\n\n\nMature height: 3 to 6 feet
\n\n\n\nMaintenance: Medium. If it grows tall, it may require staking or other support. Pinching back stems before midsummer controls plant height and promotes flower growth.
\n\n\n\nChoose plants that are in your area’s hardiness zones. Grand Rapids temperatures can drop into the teens or lower. Plants in the Grand Rapids zone, which are zones 5 and 6, can withstand the lowest temperatures the area may experience.
\n\n\n\nMake sure you have the yard space and capacity to grow the vegetation. Although you may have seen a few white oaks (quercus alba), the tree is huge and may not be right for a typical front yard or backyard.
\n\n\n\nIn addition to knowing how much space you have, be familiar with your soil type, if your soil tends to retain water or dry out, and how sunny or shady your yard is. Select native plants that will thrive best in your yard’s composition.
\n\n\n\nNative plants are low-maintenance, but they still require some work. Gardening can be relaxing and therapeutic. However, if you feel forced to tend to your plants, it may cause undue stress. So, it’s also important to choose plants that fit your maintenance availability.
\n\n\n\nGrand Rapids experiences freezing winters and can have hot summers. It’s best to plant in the spring or fall. The weather is cooler and there’s more rain. This allows for roots to establish before the summer heat or before winter freezing temperatures cause dormancy.
The USDA separates the United States into different zones, with each zone representing a 10 degrees Fahrenheit difference in yearly average lowest winter temperatures.
Grand Rapids is in zones 5 and 6. Zones 5 through 6 include zones 5a, 5b, 6a, and 6b. They have temperatures that range from -20 to -15 degrees Fahrenheit for zone 5a, to -5 to 0 degrees Fahrenheit for zone 6b.
Most plants native to Grand Rapids thrive best in soil with a range of 5.5 to 7.0 pH. Some plants may tolerate soil more acidic or alkaline, and the type of plant determines where it fits in the pH soil range. It’s best to research the plant to know what type of soil is best. Without appropriate soil conditions, plants can suffer and even die.
You’ve probably admired plenty of native plants while visiting the John Ball Zoo or Millenium Park. Lovely examples of Michigan native plants are likely displayed throughout your neighborhood. The Land Conservancy of West Michigan has information on local native plant sales by the Kent Conservation District and other organizations.
\n\n\n\nAnother place to look if you want to bring a piece of Grand Rapids home with you is a native plant nursery. Try these local options:
\n\n\n\nYou’ve already done the work of helping sustain the ecosystem by giving natural resources to butterflies, other pollinators, and local wildlife with your native landscape. Now, make sure both you and the local wildlife have a healthy turfgrass canvas, too. Let a local lawn care pro handle your lawn care needs.
\n\n\n\nMain Image Credit: Farmartin / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0
\n","title":"9 Best Native Plants for Grand Rapids, MI","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.3333333333333333,"src":"/static/a0c01b02cc86b9f7659e4a3b5471142d/1789c/Common-Boneset-1.jpg","srcSet":"/static/a0c01b02cc86b9f7659e4a3b5471142d/107df/Common-Boneset-1.jpg 320w,\n/static/a0c01b02cc86b9f7659e4a3b5471142d/293e9/Common-Boneset-1.jpg 500w,\n/static/a0c01b02cc86b9f7659e4a3b5471142d/f2cbb/Common-Boneset-1.jpg 800w,\n/static/a0c01b02cc86b9f7659e4a3b5471142d/1789c/Common-Boneset-1.jpg 960w,\n/static/a0c01b02cc86b9f7659e4a3b5471142d/c26c2/Common-Boneset-1.jpg 1200w","srcWebp":"/static/a0c01b02cc86b9f7659e4a3b5471142d/1dd6e/Common-Boneset-1.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/a0c01b02cc86b9f7659e4a3b5471142d/67b76/Common-Boneset-1.webp 320w,\n/static/a0c01b02cc86b9f7659e4a3b5471142d/8df11/Common-Boneset-1.webp 500w,\n/static/a0c01b02cc86b9f7659e4a3b5471142d/98a65/Common-Boneset-1.webp 800w,\n/static/a0c01b02cc86b9f7659e4a3b5471142d/1dd6e/Common-Boneset-1.webp 960w,\n/static/a0c01b02cc86b9f7659e4a3b5471142d/3cc96/Common-Boneset-1.webp 1200w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"9 Best Native Plants for Grand Rapids, MI | Wikilawn","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":"Read to find out the best native plants for Grand Rapids, including the benefits of native plants, native plant nurseries, and FAQ."}}},{"node":{"id":"f6b0b0e0-da8f-59fe-a29c-72229f6dc7a9","slug":"grass-around-pools","path":"/lawn-care/grass-around-pools/","status":"publish","template":"","format":"standard","author":{"description":"","name":"Kelly Holland","id":"87ed81cb-6dc6-5b6f-8673-e295fb5aa8f3","path":"/author/karen/","avatar_urls":{"wordpress_96":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/a7bdc84bcad759506a493dca25650999?s=96&d=mm&r=g"}},"categories":[{"id":"5bb57152-2e9b-5822-a133-bc84c122adab","name":"Landscaping","count":42,"path":"/category/blog/landscaping/"},{"id":"205f24d4-c1e5-5728-bb28-8ba70eecbc7a","name":"Lawn Care","count":432,"path":"/category/lawn-care/"}],"date":"November 12th, 2019","excerpt":"Just picture it: getting out of the pool and walking around on soft, green grass instead of hard, hot pavement. It seems like a good idea — but there are some things to think about when it comes to poolside grass. Will the pool water affect the grass? How do I keep grass clippings out […]
\n","content":"\nJust picture it: getting out of the pool and walking around on soft, green grass instead of hard, hot pavement. It seems like a good idea — but there are some things to think about when it comes to poolside grass. Will the pool water affect the grass? How do I keep grass clippings out of the pool? Can a grass installation be as low-maintenance as hardscape around the swimming pool? Here’s what you need to know about grass around pools.
\n\n\n\nThe benefit to a concrete or tile pool deck is the maintenance — or lack thereof. At most, you might power-wash the deck at the beginning and end of the pool season, and it’s an easy continuation of your pool design. It also stands up to heavy foot traffic with no problem. Grass around pools, for all its comfort on bare feet and safety, needs more TLC. Two major concerns are water and mowing — water, because pool water may have an effect on your grass, and mowing because it can make a mess in the pool. But with a little effort, you can keep the grass around your pool from getting into your pool.
\n\n\n\nArtificial turf has come a long way in the last few decades, from that plastic, bright green stuff, to synthetic grass that looks real. You and your guests may not be able to tell it apart from natural grass at first glance. Fake grass doesn’t need mowing, fertilizing or watering — but it maintains the same look as real grass. And the best artificial grass will keep your feet cool and cushion any slips and falls as well.
\n\n\n\nArtificial grass may also hold up better when doused by the chemicals in your pool. But keep in mind turfgrass can tolerate chlorine better than ornamental grasses and shrubs. If you accidentally spill full-strength chlorine on the lawn, you can flush the chemicals out of the soil with a heavy dose of water. The grass should bounce back without too much trouble.
\n\n\n\nSaltwater comes with different rules, and it depends on what kind of grass you have. Certain varieties, like Bermuda grass and seashore paspalum, tolerate saltwater pretty well. Seashore paspalum is used on golf courses, and watered with brackish water. But some varieties such as Kentucky bluegrass and fine fescues will dry out and suffocate when hit with too much salt.
\n\n\n\nToo much salt in the soil will also impact other plants as well as water features, like a koi pond, as the salt leaches into the soil. That’s something to consider if you want to change your landscape design in the future.
\n\n\n\nA concrete pool deck won’t get quite hot enough to fry an egg, but it can get up to 145 degrees Fahrenheit — definitely too hot to walk on with bare feet. That includes any hardscape surface, like pavers, that are part of your pool landscaping. Grass is a terrible conductor of heat, so it’s safer and more comfortable for you, your family, and your pets in the pool area.
\n\n\n\nThere’s a reason the lifeguards at your local public pool are always screaming at kids to “WALK!” When you add water and some oily sunscreen residue and wet feet to a concrete pool deck, you’re looking at an easy recipe for injuries. The Consumer Protection Safety Commission posted a warning back in 1974. That warning about slippery pool decks lives on today because the danger is the same as it was more than forty years ago. The CPSC says, “Many severe injuries result from falling on slippery walkways and decks and falling from diving boards and ladders.” While slipping on grass is not impossible, it’s less likely, and the landing is softer. Safety should be a major consideration when designing your pool and deck.
\n\n\n\nWhether you’re installing a new pool, or making some upgrades to an existing one, both concrete and grass have pros and cons. Weigh them carefully before deciding which is best for you.
\n","title":"Grass Around Pools","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":0.99609375,"src":"/static/a3e012b088c2698b9b908b0373e484d2/1789c/pool-swimming-pool-property-fence-leisure-palm-tree-1454847-pxhere.com_.jpg","srcSet":"/static/a3e012b088c2698b9b908b0373e484d2/107df/pool-swimming-pool-property-fence-leisure-palm-tree-1454847-pxhere.com_.jpg 320w,\n/static/a3e012b088c2698b9b908b0373e484d2/293e9/pool-swimming-pool-property-fence-leisure-palm-tree-1454847-pxhere.com_.jpg 500w,\n/static/a3e012b088c2698b9b908b0373e484d2/f2cbb/pool-swimming-pool-property-fence-leisure-palm-tree-1454847-pxhere.com_.jpg 800w,\n/static/a3e012b088c2698b9b908b0373e484d2/1789c/pool-swimming-pool-property-fence-leisure-palm-tree-1454847-pxhere.com_.jpg 960w,\n/static/a3e012b088c2698b9b908b0373e484d2/28e3e/pool-swimming-pool-property-fence-leisure-palm-tree-1454847-pxhere.com_.jpg 1020w","srcWebp":"/static/a3e012b088c2698b9b908b0373e484d2/1dd6e/pool-swimming-pool-property-fence-leisure-palm-tree-1454847-pxhere.com_.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/a3e012b088c2698b9b908b0373e484d2/67b76/pool-swimming-pool-property-fence-leisure-palm-tree-1454847-pxhere.com_.webp 320w,\n/static/a3e012b088c2698b9b908b0373e484d2/8df11/pool-swimming-pool-property-fence-leisure-palm-tree-1454847-pxhere.com_.webp 500w,\n/static/a3e012b088c2698b9b908b0373e484d2/98a65/pool-swimming-pool-property-fence-leisure-palm-tree-1454847-pxhere.com_.webp 800w,\n/static/a3e012b088c2698b9b908b0373e484d2/1dd6e/pool-swimming-pool-property-fence-leisure-palm-tree-1454847-pxhere.com_.webp 960w,\n/static/a3e012b088c2698b9b908b0373e484d2/11d64/pool-swimming-pool-property-fence-leisure-palm-tree-1454847-pxhere.com_.webp 1020w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"Grass Around Pools | Wikilawn","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":""}}},{"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":"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 […]
\n","content":"\nSteel 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.
\n\n\n\nThere are several advantages of planting native species in your Pittsburgh backyard:
\n\n\n\nNative plants help to promote and preserve Pittsburgh’s ecosystem. Consider these 10 native plants for Pittsburgh to create a stunning backyard.
\n\n\n\nIn this article, we’ll see:
\n\n\n\n![\"Eastern](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Eastern-Redbud.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Famartin / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nThe 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.
\n\n\n\nLike 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.
\n\n\n\nPlant type: Tree
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 4 to 9
\n\n\n\nSun: Full sun or partial shade.
\n\n\n\nSoil: Any moist, well-draining, nutrient-rich soil
\n\n\n\nDuration: Deciduous perennial
\n\n\n\nBloom time: Spring
\n\n\n\nWater needs: 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
\n\n\n\nMature height: 20 to 30 feet tall with a 25 to 35 foot spread
\n\n\n\nMaintenance: Low. Since this tree is not meant to transplant, it should be planted when young and left undisturbed. It needs little pruning.
\n\n\n\n![\"closeup](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Black-Eyed-Susan.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Krzysztof Ziarnek, Kenraiz / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nBlack-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.
\n\n\n\nWhile Black-eyed Susan is generally a hardy plant, it can be vulnerable to powdery mildew, slugs and snails.
\n\n\n\nPlant type: Flower
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 3 to 9
\n\n\n\nSun: Full sun
\n\n\n\nSoil: Clay, sand, loam, acidic, moist, well-drained
\n\n\n\nDuration: Depending on growing conditions can act as a biennial, annual, or short-lived perennial
\n\n\n\nFragrance: Sweet
\n\n\n\nBloom time: Spring, summer, early autumn
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Medium. It has moderate drought tolerance
\n\n\n\nMature height: 1 to 3 feet.
\n\n\n\nMaintenance: Low. Can self-seed freely. Black-eyed Susan can become aggressive if given too perfect an environment and insufficient competition.
\n\n\n\n![\"Virginia](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Virginia-Bluebells.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Ryan Hodnett / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nVirginia bluebells 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.
\n\n\n\nIt 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.
\n\n\n\nPlant type: Herbaceous
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 3 to 8
\n\n\n\nSun: Part shade to full shade
\n\n\n\nSoil: Chalk, clay, loam, sand. Acid, alkaline, neutral. Moist but well-drained
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFragrance: Light, sweet
\n\n\n\nBloom time: Spring
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Average. It does its best when moisture is abundant and will decline when the soil is too dry
\n\n\n\nMature height: 1 to 2 feet
\n\n\n\nMaintenance: Medium. This plant self-seeds, but is not easy to propagate. It should be cut back after flowering.
\n\n\n\n![\"Wild](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Wild-Geranium.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Joshua Mayer / Flickr / CC BY-SA 2.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nWild 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.
\n\n\n\nIt 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.
\n\n\n\nPlant type: Clump-forming flowering plant
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 3 to 8
\n\n\n\nSun: Full sun to part shade
\n\n\n\nSoil: Chalk, clay, loam, sand. Acid, alkaline, neutral. Moist but well-drained.
\n\n\n\nDuration: Semi-evergreen perennial
\n\n\n\nFragrance: Citrus and fruity accents with a hint of rose smell
\n\n\n\nBloom time: Late spring, early summer
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Medium. Recently planted geraniums should be kept in moist soil during the first growing season.
\n\n\n\nMature height: 1 to 2 feet
\n\n\n\nMaintenance: Low. Remove flower stems and old leaves to encourage the production of new leaves and flowers.
\n\n\n\n![\"Red](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Red-Columbine.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Jason Hollinger / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nWild columbine 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.
\n\n\n\nPlant type: Herbaceous
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 3 to 8
\n\n\n\nSun: Full sun to part shade
\n\n\n\nSoil: Chalk, clay, loam, sand. Acid, alkaline, neutral. Moist but well-drained.
\n\n\n\nDuration: Semi-evergreen perennial
\n\n\n\nBloom time: Late spring, early summer
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Average. It prefers moist soil, so don’t let the soil dry out.
\n\n\n\nMature height: 1 to 3 feet
\n\n\n\nMaintenance: Medium. Be careful of overwatering in summer because the crowns can rot. Remove faded flowering stems to promote additional bloom.
\n\n\n\n![\"New](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/New-England-Aster.jpg\")
Photo Credit: The Cosmonaut / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 2.5 CA
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nThe 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.
\n\n\n\nNew 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.
\n\n\n\nPlant type: Herbaceous flower
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 4 to 8
\n\n\n\nSun: Full sun, partial shade
\n\n\n\nSoil: Chalk, clay, loam, sand. Acid, alkaline, neutral. Moist but well-drained
\n\n\n\nDuration: Deciduous perennial
\n\n\n\nBloom time: Late summer, autumn
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Medium. It prefers medium moisture, well-drained soil.
\n\n\n\nMature height: 3 to 6 feet
\n\n\n\nMaintenance: 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.
\n\n\n\n![\"Butterfly](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Butterfly-Weed-Entire-Flower-Head.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Photo by Derek Ramsey (Ram-Man) / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 2.5
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nButterfly 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.
\n\n\n\nButterfly 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.
\n\n\n\nPlant type: Herbaceous flower
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 3 to 9
\n\n\n\nSun: Full sun
\n\n\n\nSoil: Clay, loam, sand. Acid, neutral. Prefers well-drained sandy soils. Performs well in poor, dry soils.
\n\n\n\nDuration: Deciduous perennial
\n\n\n\nFragrance: Sweet, vanilla, candy-like fragrance.
\n\n\n\nBloom time: Late spring, summer.
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Low. It thrives in dry to moist, well-drained soils. Tolerates drought.
\n\n\n\nMature height: 1 to 2 feet
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Toxic to pets, livestock, and people when ingested
\n\n\n\nMaintenance: Low. Plants can grow fast from seed but are slow to establish and may take 2 to 3 years to produce flowers.
\n\n\n\n![\"American](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/American-Holly.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Dcrjsr / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY 3.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nAmerican 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.
\n\n\n\nIt 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.
\n\n\n\nPlant type: Tree
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 5 to 9
\n\n\n\nSun: Full sun, partial shade
\n\n\n\nSoil: Chalk, clay, loam, sand. Acid, neutral. Moist but well-drained.
\n\n\n\nDuration: Evergreen perennial
\n\n\n\nFragrance: Sweet
\n\n\n\nBloom time: Spring and early summer
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Medium. It will occasionally tolerate wet or dry soil but not flooding. For optimum growth, avoid poorly drained soils.
\n\n\n\nMature height: 15 to 30 feet. In moist regions, it can occasionally approach up to 60 feet.
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: It may be toxic if ingested by people, cats, or dogs. Children are most vulnerable because of their curiosity and small size.
\n\n\n\nMaintenance: Low. Supplemental water may be necessary for drier sands.
\n\n\n\n![\"Marsh](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Marsh-Blazing-Star.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Drew Avery / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nMarsh 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.
\n\n\n\nThe 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.
\n\n\n\nPlant type: Herbaceous flowering plant
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 3 to 8
\n\n\n\nSun: Full sun
\n\n\n\nSoil: Chalk, clay, loam, sand. Acid, alkaline, neutral. Moist but well-drained.
\n\n\n\nDuration: Deciduous perennial
\n\n\n\nFragrance: Faint smell of vanilla
\n\n\n\nBloom time: Summer
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Medium. Intolerant of wet soils in winter.
\n\n\n\nMature height: 3 to 6 feet
\n\n\n\nMaintenance: Low. Tall plants may need staking or other support.
\n\n\n\n![\"Aromatic](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Aromatic-Aster.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Lydia Fravel / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nAromatic aster 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.
\n\n\n\nIn 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.
\n\n\n\nPlant type: Herbaceous flower
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 3 to 8
\n\n\n\nSun: Full sun
\n\n\n\nSoil: Clay, loam, sand. Alkaline, neutral, acidic soil. Well-drained.
\n\n\n\nDuration: Deciduous perennial
\n\n\n\nFragrance: Balsam-like aroma when flowers are crushed
\n\n\n\nBloom time: Late summer, autumn
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Low. It can tolerate drought
\n\n\n\nMature height: 1 to 3 feet
\n\n\n\nMaintenance: 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.
\n\n\n\n![\"Black](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Black-birch.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Bruce Marlin / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 2.5
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nBlack 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.
\n\n\n\nIn 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.
\n\n\n\nPlant type: Tree
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 4 to 9
\n\n\n\nSun: Full sun to partial shade
\n\n\n\nSoil: Chalk, clay, loam, sand. Acid, alkaline, neutral. Moist but well-drained.
\n\n\n\nDuration: Deciduous perennial
\n\n\n\nFragrance: The inner bark of the tree has a strong wintergreen scent
\n\n\n\nBloom time: Spring
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Medium. Perform best in moist soils. The use of soaker hoses and bark mulches keeps the roots moist.
\n\n\n\nMature height: 40 to 70 feet
\n\n\n\nMaintenance: Low. It needs little pruning. It tends to drop a lot of twigs, making it better suited for rustic areas of the landscape.
\n\n\n\nGrowing 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.
\n\n\n\nPittsburgh 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.
\n\n\n\nA native plant is a species that naturally occurs and evolves in a specific geographic region or ecosystem. They are adapted to that region’s climate, soil, and other environmental conditions and have often co-evolved with local wildlife. They are essential to a healthy ecosystem.
\n\n\n\nIn 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.
\n\n\n\nThe 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.
\n\n\n\nIt’s not recommended to gather native plants from the wild, and in some cases, you aren’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.
\n\n\n\nOther native plants of Pennsylvania include:
\n\n\n\nIf 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.
\n\n\n\nCheck out these plant nurseries recommended by the Native Plant Society of Pennsylvania:
\n\n\n\nConsidering 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 best grass types for Pittsburgh for a healthy lawn.
If you would like to have a beautiful backyard lawn and need the help of a professional, connect with a local lawn care pro in your area.
\n\n\n\nMain Photo Credit: Phipps Conservatory, Pittsburgh / GPA Photo Archive / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\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."}}},{"node":{"id":"00f4152c-89c8-58e5-a4c5-8086d747d6cb","slug":"value-well-kept-landscape","path":"/blog/landscaping/value-well-kept-landscape/","status":"publish","template":"","format":"standard","author":{"description":"Danielle Bradley is a botanist who experiments with native plants from every region in the U.S. She’s dedicated to companion planting without the use of pesticides. Her own garden is filled with a variety of colors and textures.","name":"Danielle Bradley","id":"7329a804-3158-5b9f-94fc-835a4923557a","path":"/author/danielle-bradley/","avatar_urls":{"wordpress_96":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/a840af9ee5b616963d15a622658e9612?s=96&d=mm&r=g"}},"categories":[{"id":"7fc32475-4c73-58a8-996f-8b8d79ba2450","name":"Arizona","count":12,"path":"/category/lawn-care/az/"},{"id":"5bb57152-2e9b-5822-a133-bc84c122adab","name":"Landscaping","count":42,"path":"/category/blog/landscaping/"},{"id":"205f24d4-c1e5-5728-bb28-8ba70eecbc7a","name":"Lawn Care","count":432,"path":"/category/lawn-care/"},{"id":"90f74182-5f0d-5dd3-8d32-576a5a21d01d","name":"Phoenix","count":12,"path":"/category/lawn-care/az/phoenix/"}],"date":"October 3rd, 2019","excerpt":"A beautiful landscape is like the cover of a book. Neighbors and future buyers will know the inside is well-kept when the outside is pristine. A lush, green lawn also hits home with future house hunters, adding several thousand dollars to the value of your property. When it comes to Scottsdale real estate, the old […]
\n","content":"\nA beautiful landscape is like the cover of a book. Neighbors and future buyers will know the inside is well-kept when the outside is pristine. A lush, green lawn also hits home with future house hunters, adding several thousand dollars to the value of your property. When it comes to Scottsdale real estate, the old cliche of Location, location, location can be changed to Landscaping, landscaping, landscaping!
\n\n\n\nThere’s nothing like pulling up in front of your home after a hectic day and taking time to admire your yard. Your neighbors may be green with envy, especially if their yards are overgrown with tall grass, weeds, and out-of-control bushes and shrubs. All of which harbor insects, rodents, and other pests. Studies show a vibrant, green lawn also increases oxygen production. If you’re allergic to certain types of foliage, keeping your yard maintained can reduce the spread of allergens around your home. Prospective buyers, impressed with your landsdaping plan, kwil see the value of your home.
\n\n\n\nA nicely maintained yard with a deck, patio or swimming poolalso helps expand the square usable footage of your living space by allowing you to entertain outdoors. And a well-kept landscape gives your children a safe place to play as it adds to your home’s value.
\n\n\n\nDepending on the types of plants, animals, and trees that are in your area, failing to maintain your landscape can lead to property damage, which is not the curb appeal you want. Proper landscaping prevents water build-up outside and inside your home. Excess leaves and roots can clog your gutters and cause your roof to leak. Trees planted too close to your home can sink their roots in your foundation over time and crack your foundation, inviting water damage and mold. Those repairs can be costly, erode your home’s value, and, until they’re done, cut your resale value by makimg a bad first impression.
\n\n\n\nWhen the grass is greener on your side of the fence, your neighbors will be encouraged to keep up with their landscaping. This benefits the entire neighborhood by increasing property values. Few people want to buy a home next to a trashy yard! Many a neighborhood feud has started with code enforcement complaints and city fines for unkept lawns. Homeowner association covenants and restrictions often pile on, adding their own HOA penalty fees for failing to mow lawns, on top of the fines you’ll face for violating city ordinances.
\n\n\n\n![\"\"/](\"https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/5CTjjI_t-amIvMuqat0qEsidUHXsCtwS48adpLWCz42pbWxvVGrCDBywGsbnXtKnFwAm0DBbHtUZ1Ma825upNTbwO5zWdfrCz4Neu67dMtE4THKVpEgbcmCSHhAT31LetGqJJa8p\")
Green lawns save you plenty of green as they add to your home’s value. It costs more money to restore a yard that is ravaged by weeds, dry patches, and unruly foliage. The more severe your lawn issues are, the more it will cost to repair them, and the longer the process will take. Homebuyers and potential buyers won’t want to wait for you to deal with your front yard landscape issues. When plants and shrubs are groomed properly and weeds are treated early, you can tend to your yard on a regular basis in a fraction of the time.
\n\n\n\nMaintaining your landscape is an underrated home improvement that can do wonders for your home. If you find it overwhelming, you can hire a professional to take care of it for you. You’ll save money on repairs in the long run.
\n","title":"The Value of a Well-Kept Landscape","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.3333333333333333,"src":"/static/5d713d4a23bad4a6a409511a60686f96/1789c/money_shot.jpg","srcSet":"/static/5d713d4a23bad4a6a409511a60686f96/107df/money_shot.jpg 320w,\n/static/5d713d4a23bad4a6a409511a60686f96/293e9/money_shot.jpg 500w,\n/static/5d713d4a23bad4a6a409511a60686f96/f2cbb/money_shot.jpg 800w,\n/static/5d713d4a23bad4a6a409511a60686f96/1789c/money_shot.jpg 960w,\n/static/5d713d4a23bad4a6a409511a60686f96/a2a79/money_shot.jpg 1024w","srcWebp":"/static/5d713d4a23bad4a6a409511a60686f96/1dd6e/money_shot.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/5d713d4a23bad4a6a409511a60686f96/67b76/money_shot.webp 320w,\n/static/5d713d4a23bad4a6a409511a60686f96/8df11/money_shot.webp 500w,\n/static/5d713d4a23bad4a6a409511a60686f96/98a65/money_shot.webp 800w,\n/static/5d713d4a23bad4a6a409511a60686f96/1dd6e/money_shot.webp 960w,\n/static/5d713d4a23bad4a6a409511a60686f96/7aa54/money_shot.webp 1024w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"The Value of a Well-Kept Landscape | Wikilawn","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":""}}},{"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":"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 […]
\n","content":"\nAfter 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.
\n\n\n\nPatience 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.
\n\n\n\nIn this article, we’ll cover:
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n![\"purple](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Purple-Poppy-Mallow.jpg\")
Photo Credit: PublicDomainPictures
\n\n\n\nPurple 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.
\n\n\n\nPurple 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.
\n\n\n\nPlant type: Flowering ground cover
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 3 to 8
\n\n\n\nSun: Full sun, partial shade
\n\n\n\nSoil: Rocky, sandy, loamy, clay
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFragrance: No fragrance
\n\n\n\nBloom time: Late spring to early summer
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Medium
\n\n\n\nMature height: Up to 1 foot
\n\n\n\nMaintenance: Can prune in late summer if desired
\n\n\n\n![\"New](\"https://lawnlove.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/05/new-england-aster_800.jpg\")
Photo Credit: hedera.baltica / Flickr / CC BY-SA 2.0
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.
\n\n\n\nThe leaves on New England aster are rough and hairy. These flowers flourish well in moist soil with good air circulation.
\n\n\n\nPlant type: Flower
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 4 to 8
\n\n\n\nSun: Full sun, partial shade
\n\n\n\nSoil: Sandy, loamy, clay
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFragrance: No fragrance
\n\n\n\nBloom time: Late summer, autumn
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Medium
\n\n\n\nMature height: 3 to 6 feet
\n\n\n\nMaintenance: 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.
\n\n\n\n![\"colorful](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Butterfly-Milkweed.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Eric Hunt / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0
\n\n\n\nIf you already have a butterfly garden or wish to have one that gets abundant sun, check out butterfly milkweed 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.
\n\n\n\nButterfly milkweed is low-maintenance, even in the aspect of watering–– once established, butterfly milkweed only needs occasional watering and prefers dry soil.
\n\n\n\nThe 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.
\n\n\n\nPlant type: Perennial herb
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 3 to 9
\n\n\n\nSun: Full sun
\n\n\n\nSoil: Clay, loam, sand
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFragrance: Sweet, vanilla
\n\n\n\nBloom time: May to September
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Low
\n\n\n\nMature height: 1 to 2 feet
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Poisonous to cats, dogs, livestock, and people when ingested
\n\n\n\nMaintenance: Low
\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Crossvine.jpg\")
Photo Credit: gailhampshire / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\nCrossvine 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.
\n\n\n\nIf your landscape is part shade, you can still grow crossvine, but it won’t flower as much as in a full sun yard.
\n\n\n\nEnsure 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.
\n\n\n\nPlant type: Vine
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 6 to 9
\n\n\n\nSun: Full sun, partial shade
\n\n\n\nSoil: Sandy, loamy, clay
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFragrance: Mocha
\n\n\n\nBloom time: Mid-spring to late summer
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Low to medium
\n\n\n\nMature height: Climbs up to 50 feet
\n\n\n\nMaintenance: Prune to keep the desired shape
\n\n\n\n![\"Baptisia](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Baptisia-australis-Blue-False-Indigo.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Fritzflohrreynolds / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 3.0
\n\n\n\nBlue 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.
\n\n\n\nBlue 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.
\n\n\n\nPlant type: Upright perennial
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 3 to 9
\n\n\n\nSun: Full sun
\n\n\n\nSoil: Loam, sad
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFragrance: None
\n\n\n\nBloom time: April to July
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Low, average
\n\n\n\nMature height: 3 to 4 feet
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Poisonous to cats, dogs, livestock, and people when ingested
\n\n\n\nMaintenance: Low
\n\n\n\n![\"white](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/American-Black-Elderberry.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Famartin / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0
\n\n\n\nAmerican black elderberry, 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.
\n\n\n\nAmerican 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.
\n\n\n\nPlant type: Shrub
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 4 to 10
\n\n\n\nSun: Full sun, part shade
\n\n\n\nSoil: Tolerates a wide variety of wet to dry soils but prefers rich, moist, slightly acid soil
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFragrance: Sweet
\n\n\n\nBloom time: May to July
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Medium
\n\n\n\nMature height: 5 to 8 feet
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Raw elderberries are toxic and should not be consumed
\n\n\n\nMaintenance: Regular pruning to remove suckers from the base of plant
\n\n\n\n![\"Evening](\"https://www.lawnstarter.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/04/evening-primrose-1458681_1920_800-646x440.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Pixabay
\n\n\n\nEvening primrose 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.
\n\n\n\nEvening 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.
\n\n\n\nHolistic properties have been associated with evening primrose, which is why it’s also known as the cure-all plant.
\n\n\n\nPlant type: Herbaceous
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 4 – 9
\n\n\n\nSun: Full sun to partial shade
\n\n\n\nSoil: Sandy, gravelly, medium moisture, well-drained soil.
\n\n\n\nDuration: Biennial
\n\n\n\nFragrance: Mild lemon
\n\n\n\nBloom time: Early summer to early fall
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Medium
\n\n\n\nMature height: 3 to 5 feet tall, 2 to 3 feet wide
\n\n\n\nMaintenance: Snip expired blooms
\n\n\n\n![\"Purple](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Purple-Coneflower.jpg\")
Photo Credit: PumpkinSky / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0
\n\n\n\nPurple 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.
\n\n\n\nWhile you admire this showy wildflower, hummingbirds, bees, butterflies, and finches will also enjoy the purple coneflower.
\n\n\n\nAn 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.
\n\n\n\nPlant type: Flower
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 3 to 8
\n\n\n\nSun: Full sun, partial shade
\n\n\n\nSoil: Sandy
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFragrance: Light, sweet, honey-like
\n\n\n\nBloom time: April to September
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Medium
\n\n\n\nMature height: 2 to 5 feet
\n\n\n\nMaintenance: Low
\n\n\n\nBefore 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.
\n\n\n\nOKC is in USDA hardiness zone 7, so ensure any other plants (native or non-native) that catch your eye fall into the correct hardiness for OKC.
\n\n\n\nThis 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.
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.
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.
The best view is sometimes off the beaten path–– 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:
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nIf you want your landscape to include more than just native plants, the best grass types for Oklahoma City can help complete your picturesque backyard oasis. Connect with a local lawn care pro to upkeep your landscape with lawn mowing, edging, and trimming.
\n\n\n\nMain Image Credit: Bill Wilson / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\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":"eeec794e-9685-5fde-9f57-579e9dbc414c","slug":"best-landscaped-outdoor-wedding-venues","path":"/blog/landscaping/best-landscaped-outdoor-wedding-venues/","status":"publish","template":"","format":"standard","author":{"description":"Emaley Baxter is an expert landscaper who loves writing in her free time. She enjoys research and exploring the great outdoors.","name":"Emaley Baxter","id":"c006aa66-4cfc-59dc-b3ce-5c07b0f83ff0","path":"/author/emaleybaxter/","avatar_urls":{"wordpress_96":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/889dbc1c9ea88d564723019ac6c9b47b?s=96&d=mm&r=g"}},"categories":[{"id":"c16818a6-3923-5fc7-a49b-191ac48bf4d2","name":"Blog","count":81,"path":"/category/blog/"},{"id":"5bb57152-2e9b-5822-a133-bc84c122adab","name":"Landscaping","count":42,"path":"/category/blog/landscaping/"}],"date":"June 5th, 2020","excerpt":"The term “wedding bell blues” has taken on a new meaning as the pandemic forces couples to postpone nuptials until it’s safe for crowds to gather. But as the $74 billion industry suffers, there’s a bright spot: Outdoor weddings are gaining in popularity. Outdoor wedding venues have always been popular. Tying the knot in Mother […]
\n","content":"\nThe term “wedding bell blues” has taken on a new meaning as the pandemic forces couples to postpone nuptials until it’s safe for crowds to gather. But as the $74 billion industry suffers, there’s a bright spot: Outdoor weddings are gaining in popularity.
\n\n\n\nOutdoor wedding venues have always been popular. Tying the knot in Mother Nature carries a splendor no indoor venue can match. Choosing a beautiful garden or vista can save you an average of $1,500 on wedding flowers. And now there’s a new reason to consider them, since they can keep guests safer with social distancing and avoiding recirculated air.
\n\n\n\nSo if you’re considering an outdoor wedding venue, we’ve made it easier by compiling a list of the best, with a special focus on landscaping and natural beauty. Below are the winners of Wikilawn’s “Wiki Wonder Award” for best landscaped wedding venues.
\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/06/best_venue_badge.png\"){kind=icon}
To win the Wiki-award badge of honor, the venue must have several selling points:
\n\n\n\nWeeding the list down to the best was challenging. We now know what brides go through when choosing the site for her picture-perfect wedding. We hope this list will make things a little less stressful.
\n\n\n\n![\"\"/](\"https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/jP2oGeISjwPECaOEp-mriyU4qBjTCiKSXinEeFk9COyrrLtmbjXXQ3hc4b_TDI2ZpIOYDZjjtuU4Ndq4-eMa9Lp1Xfj2oLExsQBw8M7WQR7H7e_-wXYq0GG6TFYJ30B_8eZFvkga\")
Calling itself the “emerald jewel in the crown of Atlanta culture,” the Botanical Garden opened in 1976. It’s become one of the city’s most popular wedding sites, but choosing your setting isn’t an easy task, as there are so many gorgeous backdrops. Want a serene forest setting? Got it. Lush tropical plants and the sound of waterfalls? Yep. Or go for the most popular ceremony site on the grounds: the Rose Garden, with brightly hued flowers and a brilliant green lawn.
\n\n\n\nFavorite Post: Alice’s Wonderland Reimagined
\n\n\n\n![\"\"/](\"https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/lNhDIvYHR3xdOsR4M-9siNjJaPJJDeLI8EXij7yHhgPutKcVnu-kXH5y__sFnjRewV4iZ3pCfCc2AAMIOcQSlIGASy0m9B1SRRAT7S-OmjqvB3CRA2EX7z2kS2-1r6CYxpbKfEHr\")
This historic mansion on Atlanta’s Peachtree Street was the talk of the town when it was built 116 years ago. Amos Rhodes was inspired by homes he saw when traveling through the German Rhineland and built this house for his family. These days, Rhodes Hall is a museum and the setting for numerous weddings. You can hold your ceremony inside, but the outdoor backdrop features a magnificent green lawn, flowers, and trees against large stone arches.
\n\n\n\nFavorite Post: Going Green
\n\n\n\n![\"\"/](\"https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/HOT2Blqi3IL_AwDWpiOeupzurxaLjNC-0ksOGNTvAn9aMn2gR_-crMrMEa8Cm1rCi2Z3HXzaQ2V7PdqZ851glJ41jPSw1A5N_t7uxjEA2mMJ9PGeoeOsq1DRCkGXFAh86mDC7lz4\")
The Contemporary Austin has a lofty goal: to be an essential part of city life. With a unique combination of both urban and outdoor sites, the museum has something for everyone. The Contemporary occupies a downtown space that housed a drugstore 150 years ago. Several renovations later, it became The Contemporary in 1998. Many couples looking for a downtown wedding choose this site for the renowned Moody Rooftop, featuring a breathtaking view of downtown, including the Capitol.
\n\n\n\nFavorite Post: Create at Home
\n\n\n\n![\"\"/](\"https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/vcN71kHI2Vndv0IAIxROm6Wc1OXvJRfeD3w8xL72B_av1zvCHRJinPgo9HhDwckTKmOatDXHsJqzSDmISt5vuVFjg5M8eBDGUGoL3DiQrWgFXJ-fiiyjTnslVPLDYDGPQIipWGAB\")
Atlanta, known as “the Gate City” since 1857, after the railroad system was completed, is home to this landmark. Back then, Atlanta was the gateway from the Atlantic Ocean to the west by train. Now, this 100-foot tall monument is the backdrop for weddings held in its courtyard. Ceremonies take place on the oval lawn, nestled inside Roman columns and surrounded by green trees and shrubs. There’s even a pond with a fountain.
\n\n\n\nFavorite Post: Collections Highlights
\n\n\n\n![\"\"/](\"https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/Rkf-iZQrNXFghJYiIpXjrGzcbTquKwQi1yNZt4khHcoQxrCHV3_6NXIUU1Cy8KjkuMi6aDuO9kTZ8XzRKLkyPbk1NprMuGcSV5YJpnWZrO8t-xrGZ_Db3E0jC644JmHDn2lXKj5C\")
This historic site in the heart of Austin, Texas, has a fascinating and varied background. Built in 1856, the Neill-Cochran House Museum features the city’s only intact slave quarters. The Greek Revival home was also used as a school for the blind and, during the Civil War, a federal hospital. This antebellum venue features an outdoor space for weddings with stone pavers, trees, flowers, and privacy shrubs surrounded by history.
\n\n\n\nFavorite Post: Dancing With the Demon Rum
\n\n\n\n![\"\"/](\"https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/Zj5a7g4zSoxeN_KGKmXFu1VcG46m5EV03WJ96JV6jA6gvcnR0Sjb1y577LLycEtm7qKWAXW5lIl7SfNvBUNodg_cdVYUDiCbuekOckwUKNy1xpkUiz5l6ow_J57n0mq1H-PQ5mqG\")
Co-owner Tirzah Caffee grew up around weddings, thanks to her parents, who restored historic homes and turned them into wedding venues. The Alexander Homestead was built in 1903 in Charlotte, N.C., and was renovated to its present state in 2010. The outdoor space is full of vibrant flowerbeds, emerald-green hedges and trees, pathways, and water features with small bridges.
\n\n\n\nFavorite Post: Stress Free: The Way Your Wedding Should Be
\n\n\n\n![\"\"/](\"https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/2nT5DK6JaEtksNSJNZ9eAnPlgyNG8-DwtclT-nL1rqp4XX7rq7rc7_NBDqxCBG3VbIcSIZO83vuGIufIvXZ_-MuoHrgvPA9eWEBqmNrziWnYx-mvWpbFmJJ1J6kWEVk2W8QFfpC9\")
The original Duke Mansion was built in 1915. Four years later, tobacco mogul James Buchanan Duke bought it and tripled its size. The Charlotte, N.C., property passed through many hands before landing with a foundation designed to preserve its history. The Duke Mansion operates as a small, upscale inn and hosts weddings 25 weekends a year, making it a much-sought-after site. Two outdoor spaces are available, each with beautiful grounds and brilliant flowers.
\n\n\n\nFavorite Post: The Mary DBT Semans Gardens
\n\n\n\n![\"\"/](\"https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/ZhvmgtrpoU5VtbO6mnoYsvJn7wyB7dT7pSt4cHUQCOEBJ0OwJb07OiSUCZADib3fpHSy-CNetDO0UZubkGZIqGbkngCUJlCiZhA8R3uh50-a68wH1qcyX1VQ0xwzc8T2SiGTtR6w\")
The 18-acre Pinecroft estate sits right in the middle of a busy neighborhood in Cincinnati. The area was less developed when the estate was built in 1928 by inventor and former owner of the Cincinnati Reds, Powell Crosley, Jr. The mansion now belongs to Cincinnati Preservation and serves as an event center. The grounds feature a 5-acre lake, dozens of gardens, and a lavish pavilion, providing a variety of backdrops for weddings.
\n\n\n\nFavorite Post: Rich English Elegance for Your Cincinnati Celebration
\n\n\n\nCincinnati Parks
\n\n\n\n![\"\"/](\"https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/QQbIS4ZTqDf6uA9-9yFi79V6bsnoxVzJ4jcui6-diajiuKUKd5pmqmhv65kIFY7k7gqRGk1LLylkNf_2hvClZ5w6gT2pb9pjg2YUZ9KybUwhBFCQDWtT3Im5s-XDeUC7vvIQ8DSd\")
Cincinnati’s first park started with a donation of land in 1817, laying the groundwork for today’s large city park system. Four of the parks offer wedding backdrops, including a mid-nineteenth century domed pavilion on a vast lawn. You’ll also find picturesque gazebos and arbor settings featuring both annual and perennial gardens.
\n\n\n\nFavorite Post: Cincinnati Parks Rank 5th in the Nation
\n\n\n\n![\"\"/](\"https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/AQxJoVqlSIIB3H3OkChxem5SPtdkhVxIhrG8CGvLiP-RcPpyHBJkTddUQh_o2ijoxZv-W_S48gb7-DzXtuonyHBRoNRnVt-Te0OSmuYbyey-PwssNZICA3rf2-pHCjFXVuXgPMtD\")
Tucked away in a 15-acre park setting, Nationwide Hotels & Conference Center in Columbus, Ohio, is the perfect spot for outdoor weddings. Couples can choose from a patio overlooking a tranquil pond, a luxurious lawn with mature trees and vibrant floral displays, or a white pergola with clinging wisteria vines. The Nationwide Hotel hosts more than 75 weddings each year.
\n\n\n\nFavorite Post: Send Them Off in Style
\n\n\n\n![\"\"/](\"https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/InuDUdWRsmQ_JO_MbADGu3dzm_z5leF0I_OcYEhw_55r4HPpEKMm7FrRpt9_Ge5Qv_CTtw9CRR3rtDtKgmiWEqQzDK64BMPRju7uERmzXkkmf8L7b8l8ytLnz6fSUpOkF8kuUPOJ\")
This banquet hall wedding venue near Columbus, Ohio, offers one-stop shopping for couples. The rustic setting features reclaimed wood, whiskey barrel tables, and a wrought iron arbor. The outdoor patio sits near a secluded stream and the garden is bursting with flowers. Guests can hold the ceremony and reception on-site, where meals are also prepared and a DJ is available, making wedding planning simple.
\n\n\n\nFavorite Post: Ceremonies
\n\n\n\n![\"\"/](\"https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/JoWz-FVOol39gujChFoUZcksKGyVQM-aD7VEeqGq8cwd36HYSm7x9rhJJMO4qL0TQ198fmdw7bhH_WWKB7O0awOY10E5as4hzN5Mor-nbFPuOO7tR0i8ZnH_b6RX_fjHhhpduJnG\")
This country-like location is just 15 minutes from downtown Austin, Texas. Rambling Rose Ranch is home to horses, donkeys, goats, and chickens. The flagstone patio in the center of a large gravel floor is surrounded by gardens, potted flowers, and oak trees. Nearly all the decor was created by the ranch owners on a shoestring budget. It’s now one of Austin’s most popular wedding destinations.
\n\n\n\nFavorite Post: Nature=Stress Relief
\n\n\n\n![\"\"/](\"https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/7V71g1_YzcUTND7fDn7AUgc3ui3CiWJMWhHWFFWbUSBVPTq1DwRQHI00pf2jYUDZB7tcLDtiFcwmH9fVCJszX3dkMRnlfhtYebu5Cww4EiI8qZI2vE1lBFbM0dSxHQ66gmKpF9e_\")
The backdrop for this wedding venue is a beautifully designed and landscaped 18-hole golf course. The Reception House is managed by Schmidt’s, the city’s iconic food service legacy that goes back more than 100 years in Columbus. Seal your love on the greens or opt for a patio ceremony with a view of the idyllic setting.
\n\n\n\nFavorite Post: Wedding Receptions
\n\n\n\n![\"\"/](\"https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/QWmzv-cuCE0kgB98AgroQOnwou0EIHw_CrxQDG9e3nOQiuqX8_E5sr4l_hUDipKYj__WKY5pmWlDpdBnLw0l7RsZqJXNM4eM9N-xzoN6XiztrRT4MPaYrmcLDrydad1fBwmueoxJ\")
Imagine dinner and dancing under the stars next to works by Picasso. That can be your wedding reality at the Nasher Sculpture Center in Dallas. The Nasher is home to more than 300 contemporary sculptures by famous artists and has hosted countless weddings. The intimate sculpture garden includes more than a hundred weeping willows, live oaks, and magnolias. The center is a past winner of an Honor Award from the American Society of Landscape Architects.
\n\n\n\nFavorite Post: Sweet Pass Sculpture Park Revels in Looseness
\n\n\n\n![\"\"/](\"https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/QaPt7oGF22EXo4HtBJnlwdz6p5jJABRl_CqOyyCzCTBfXJghQthfEoTQB0NG7hwdCz4jkT-eTBRkzQ3Xw-6H-2XNVtFYVHsVbn20YKwBY247xuCt9VjZ-oM4044QPRnxgb_nNbde\")
Built in 1902 for James Benton Grant, the third governor of Colorado, Denver’s Grant Humphreys Mansion was sold to oil baron A.E. Humphreys 15 years later. The Colorado Historical Society now manages the property, using the front lawn and back patio (with pergola) for weddings. Photographers rave about this site because it’s located next to a park and features flower beds, birch trees, and rolling lawns. The lighting at sunset also helps create picture-perfect wedding memories.
\n\n\n\nFavorite Post: Research & Learn
\n\n\n\n![\"\"/](\"https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/jhTHupbN2aMxWloJmqAdfiOCZy5uVX99_Lsf6G0xkyaotHlTxaj_8lIr2BtJ4dRdAzV7Nb5W26pBUwVoAwe4X8yHw46qaBw18MTxDqlhNZrY31xTcglnJFc3__MA3ZPnv5eP--Td\")
Villa Parker bills itself as the place “Where the Tuscan Charm Meets the Rockies.” This wedding venue is just south of Denver and features a grand entrance and brilliant gardens. You’ll also get great pictures under the archways and courtyard with panoramic mountain views.
\n\n\n\nFavorite Post: Villa Weddings
\n\n\n\n![\"\"/](\"https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/Ck32MichoAh6rMaWaBraxzQLrzrQ6TbEPPcHTWacTmeaU9O_FeVzkgxmNog9SMGfs_GYu1W1QhaRjuRMEcMzVyQJ1E_Si5n--uW_3gREIwe-B9aWxnaVNGD8rjh0bWpcZafN0B-9\")
Wedding guests will go ape over ceremonies held at the Fort Worth Zoo in Texas. This is an unmatched spot for your special day, offering several backdrops. Put black bears and jaguars on the guest list at Texas Wild!, overlook a savanna and gaze at giraffes among the trees. Maybe you prefer the green surroundings of the Museum of Living Art gardens while surrounded (safely) by crocodiles, turtles, and exotic fish.
\n\n\n\nFavorite Post: The Fort Worth Zoo Is Seeing Pink!
\n\n\n\n![\"\"/](\"https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/1uuVjKAIPRdZJiJD-ZL5jt_Fi7B4yertdiCAW5RBq0GUCVHZpmB51RRfgUJZpBQ7l0JPWmXk80YZPRrBfKBj-RCZH1LeM_tmG32iLmFQFN4wVDgKtpRLcxFC2jd1aEgq27ESLZi7\")
This art gallery and wedding venue in Fort Worth occupies a space that’s 110 years old. Enjoy two sculpture gardens and an outdoor patio. Cafe lights strung between the many tall trees create a just-right ambiance.
\n\n\n\nFavorite Post: Elopements and Intimate Ceremonies
\n\n\n\n![\"\"/](\"https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/KE7jal_Av-rt0Rk7xpjvPRhHx-rZ8OOvW8ryyuR-zjO8ykj_7ox-Y0gPIE97INkL1T--9DdzsR1mn1xAvodyUGDnm1Ylt7FT1ikf3ePkfOWFFNLmUfwrSz7XBnAtSjOOE8363ILC\")
The Houstonian sits on 27 wood acres with several beautifully landscaped backdrops for couples to choose from. Pine and oak trees hold lush foliage and flora. Say “I do” under the twinkling lights wrapping a majestic live oak. Or spread out over the Event Lawn where, at certain times of the year, you’ll be treated to Houston’s show-stopping azaleas.
\n\n\n\nFavorite Post: Celebrate Everything Azalea at the Houstonian Hotel Club & Spa
\n\n\n\n![\"\"/](\"https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/wb0lP0KVi0BLhKR7m7ihFdi6kF_tCRbWviwFxKj-SusXGDjcYBVJ9wNz1UW-XPY5YKYqDd4OuRAJ9_ToxuJezTziiAvZUSL6eHQfLRoKWDwxkqUF0-KdaVKWPtpOWZU9YbsBkb3z\")
Looking for a rustic setting for your wedding? Moffitt Oaks in Houston may have what you want. Say your vows under an arbor next to a lake with a backdrop of mature trees, a green lawn, succulents, and flowers. Or choose a more rural look with a corral fence, an expansive lawn and an arbor dripping with plants and vines.
\n\n\n\nFavorite Post: Outdoor Wedding Venues in Houston That Will Get the Party Started
\n\n\n\n![\"\"/](\"https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/DMVLSIcSIR1mv9n3S3FXPLwNj1E98YXIAQ2aZr3qhGpqEmgZ3wmQia-D1r8dCCBXSVfBn0qXPWYL_JsM1OruPFdoBstdJwFpyXtx3ntyXGB2wzb_ina7nqwWCcKxeNOc5M-PJoX3\")
Longview Mansion was Kansas City lumber baron R.A. Long’s country estate. Built in 1913, it was once known as the “World’s Most Beautiful Farm.” Restored to its original splendor two years ago, Longview Mansion boasts numerous perfectly manicured outdoor spaces for weddings. Cultivated gardens, wooded sites, a lake and sprawling fields create a picturesque backdrop for your ceremony.
\n\n\n\nFavorite Post: Choosing a Wedding Venue
\n\n\n\n![\"\"/](\"https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/dbOUOFFxhAP7azFmhfPLTF4baH6fFkNZk77GgUPiSNdy3LOeZ6TKeRHgBs-QUycO3KuszszBq8__eowLmhOH6wOVKV3yNuoRcIETacjwlaP3lcg0GjPWJndzvQmGGSp0sD0HSTs_\")
An open-air chapel is a unique setting for a wedding, and you’ll find just that at The Pavilion Event Space in Kansas City. Surrounded by an expansive lawn, the chapel features trees, a garden, hardscaping, bridges and paths. State-of-the-art amphitheater surround sound and custom lighting make it an outdoor wedding to remember.
\n\n\n\nFavorite Post: Moody + Romantic Wedding
\n\n\n\n![\"\"/](\"https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/BajKR6O6P6DZ_i53nieCYp3ewEHHMlCxWU7-9Z5wfSZXQUQ7JYnIYvvGJgZwDdIeAyyx5wzTEqlX3mbz2kmCBV5pTmZHxJHNZUep1btF7WsZlHRQXbOV-nTMptgvO8ghv6AuaPUo\")
This venue in Phoenix was never intended to be the popular wedding spot it’s become. The owner created the Hidden Gardens as a personal project but soon decided to share its distinctive style. Boojum Tree is a 5-acre forest of trees, fountains — even a waterfall! Couples can tie the knot on the Mexican Plaza, the Tropical Rainforest, or English Garden.
\n\n\n\nFavorite Post: Photo Shoots
\n\n\n\n![\"\"/](\"https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/eRX1mWH3SLt5LZQ9oIre0gFgdiBSLXCIjqvQZOA2vKalv_Ykd-ezbdP7aEwA5AO9TLC4SMLl3TDSZOgJ5ooNdkqMJavb6P2bd55rPpIzOZcBkHF8PRia6NuBPqyQFljSjWuTc57A\")
The Royal Palms Resort in Scottsdale, Ariz., initially operated as a couples retreat. These days, couples remain in the picture but the focus is on uniting them in marriage. Wedding sites include a stone-walled courtyard surrounded by palm trees, cacti and succulents, a lawn with mountain vistas, and the Camelback Vista with a garden and mountain views.
\n\n\n\nFavorite Post: Weddings Outdoor Venues
\n\n\n\n![\"\"/](\"https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/BjARXUT0mY14S4At9hfub_7f5q5kMAoF5T-oArTWyvpXUhHThHHfJmZ3CvAIUaddfzzKB7tR6JZsvvsnczKAXoniz6j-s4Jgf5do4zQzEEzpzfscLNMEjSC3q-HI8nsJIL6846PF\")
The MIM in Phoenix calls itself “The World’s Only Global Musical Instrument Museum.” With more than 7,000 instruments from 200 countries, you’ll find items played by Johnny Cash, Elvis and Tito Puente. Wedding guests in the museum’s courtyard are treated to desert foliage, fountains, the Phoenix sculpture, and gorgeous desert sunsets.
\n\n\n\nFavorite Post: Celebrating 10 Years of MIM
\n\n\n\n![\"\"/](\"https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/DYDaYhVX22_kUIQCBBDXERrIECNTLkBi1rtk6zog1tqnuX3C12uEpQR1ommQGfq6StFtMWDb4WrXtiRm-RCeDzKHoM7vRL3ha7EeyFTtZ5FzTewndgp1nxNKPOF2hCX_m-awos2A\")
The Meadows near Raleigh, sits on a heritage farm (owned and operated by members of the same family for more than 100 years). The rolling meadows and mature forests set the scene for couples who want nature to play a role in their ceremony. The Valley offers wide-open spaces, the Lawn gives a more intimate feel in a smaller space and the Meadows puts guests right in the middle of grassy fields.
\n\n\n\nFavorite Post: Gone Camping: The Big Fake Wedding
\n\n\n\n![\"\"/](\"https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/pJ5JqHHKqq_J1jaGvywiYkFtUu90FxcDJD7Lsv-lMPNHETgLjeFES-ZRbU7uKhQYnyvezmZ4dt75pA9j0Sfje_7KjJmcnlZhLomXi7pqDVFSzwOtyH08CYK-VZ_889HxkOcn1mwC\")
This historic home in Raleigh, N.C., was built in 1876 by Agustus S. Merrimon, a chief justice of the North Carolina Supreme Court. For years in the 1900s, it was used as a college dormitory. Now, the Merrimon-Wynne House is one of the city’s premier wedding venues. Couples and their guests can experience the ceremony on The Lawn, under 100-year-old pecan trees, or in front of The Carriage House, with a sloping yard and a pergola.
\n\n\n\nFavorite Post: 8 Non-Diamond Engagement Rings That Still Have Plenty of Sparkle
\n\n\n\n![\"\"/](\"https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/qb8ZweaDJfyas9hr49BvWob2Xi0vL90Y_Y8Ju6_dZ9urIbWc3gJkkGe1cDV_o9dwA2k9vr8rEudlpTLZa2bowfnzo6YCX8GR886vlMDb8Dno4NratVbhJTX4GDSI0tK_sOlaaS4D\")
This Minneapolis, Minn, mansion was built in 1892 for George Washington Van Dusen, a grain mogul. After years of commercial use, the historic property was set to be demolished, but an investor swooped in and restored it to its original splendor. Weddings at this castle-like estate are sure to impress. Ceremonies on the brick pavers in the courtyard are surrounded by gardens, trees, and flowering shrubs; an oasis in the city.
\n\n\n\nFavorite Post: 2020 Minnesota Bride Awards
\n\n\n\n![\"\"/](\"https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/BnkZGa8UBKNRVnEjAZWNzSiAXCy67iwOlaP36ioOXpqNagiay6CQBceZpHsbqPW_tVUHCZI-ZUz0OlWrpVsOVYY8BjWKtMkt5nX4GGA4KGrWlv_lDLawc5QaDTiAOQ8lROtxi4D0\")
The Japanese Garden is part of Normandale Community College in Bloomington, Minn. This 2-acre gem was built in 1972 on a swampy area behind the college. A professional garden architect from Tokyo helped design the space. Couples who wed at The Japanese Garden find a serene setting with shrubs sheared into specific shapes such as clouds or hills.
\n\n\n\nFavorite Post: The Japanese Garden Beckons in All Seasons
\n\n\n\n![\"\"/](\"https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/5dlEURh9YQNNhAcDuBwKZpaneWZM3Zpkt85_NaGa-uHle3PxqB6TOR2AQJdLB27fnsWt4T6y1YMG7fsPb4W3UwxFaSC_ShuLKUwfVYp3rUKuvb2esRxjVEFHsTgkchuglE30UntD\")
Brides and their Prince Charmings can say their vows like royalty at this venue in Minneapolis. Set in “Cindyrella’s Wedding Garden,” the backdrop for your special day features old country charm and unique landscaping. There’s a vineyard with Edelweiss and Swenson red grapevines, a 100-year-old willow tree, a flower garden, and a lake. Best of all, you arrive at the site in a white carriage.
\n\n\n\nFavorite Post: Ceremony
\n\n\n\n![\"\"/](\"https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/s45RniOSidtwsB86RA6Pfp9V9_sdga0yhAPXaA__5JLOIntB8EA4jggEusid8N1_tNuos_sIxtpV10NIulvrok-ehv3das1pDTJPEC2FdUEor37YApRiylxy7hU3OG4KzSajGzuG\")
This historic property in Stillwater, Minn., has an unusual past. It was founded in 1858 as a poor farm, a place for the chronically indigent. The farm was discontinued 100 years later and eventually abandoned. Today, fully renovated, The Outing Lodge at Pine Point, serves as a pastoral setting for weddings. With 300 acres of wooded paths and rolling land amid hundreds of pines, the setting offers something for everyone.
\n\n\n\nFavorite Post: Theme Rooms
\n\n\n\n![\"\"/](\"https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/Oa27X_ZjdJIkjkFn6XPi61vba1UV9yUby4JvL3XlGv_ycsokD5V4gnyqkdlHbi8hvaPRPbDQwTgPt2UrQULEspL-pGg56P-63_9D5XF34qPIBOxm-U8J6g3sDNwfIsor42aiXnoM\")
The Mission Inn Resort & Club in Howey-in-the-Hills, a Central Florida town northwest of Orlando, is home to one of the earliest golf courses in the state. Built in 1917 to attract investors to the owner’s citrus business, the property declined during the Depression. Many years and renovations later, an inn was built based on Spanish Colonial architecture. Couples today can choose from three outdoor spaces; Legends Courtyard, Marina del Rey, and Plaza de la Fontana, all with spectacular landscaping and water views.
\n\n\n\nFavorite Post: Goodness From the Garden
\n\n\n\n![\"\"/](\"https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/LYVqTIwhYTLSQ3BsV5-cP3ixIsM523w-FpE419HW8ZEt3osFk2vtavw-TK7-TRVXOrDQ_X1OTDKXpD0bIUTExeuFPafOaBWd_dwAzWLVzyaYgye184foXD7S3U3JbY1YCFN_XBeS\")
In 1895, Richmond, Va., businessman Lewis Ginter bought property that was once Powhatan Indian hunting grounds. He then built the Lakeside Wheel Club, a place for local bicyclists. After several expansions, the property morphed into the Botanical Garden. Couples choose from three wedding sites: The Rose Garden envelops guests in vivid roses and delicate scents; Flagler Garden features a secluded pagoda, surrounded by a circular screen of trees; and Grace Arents Garden offers a wide lawn, a paved path leading up to an arbor and plenty of bright flowers and plants.
\n\n\n\nFavorite Post: Worms! How to Make a Wormery
\n\n\n\n![\"\"/](\"https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/XYkzGurq0lFuFJUy4Sl0SMpNeAG0w7HIADMouxDdEKmo81lx5YnU7tC5BfR0CeT-qRkaxShwKpaAzE-zo6jM6QshwdmLFblRqMW9o4NX1zLs6m7IFOvu2iMekr3iddgfqiZ6QlDf\")
Raise a glass to ceremonies at Virginia’s first urban cidery! Founded seven years ago in a historic building in Richmond, Blue Bee creates artisanal ciders from heirloom Virginia apples. This full-fledged cider production and tasting facility makes for a wedding backdrop like no other. The cidery offers French country style buildings and garden with vivid blooms and, of course, cider. Bottoms up!
\n\n\n\nFavorite Post: Persnickety Pawpaws
\n\n\n\n![\"\"/](\"https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/4m8SCIeJPbYjiMh7g7h3QYehAIqrZ48_4kzZxXYYOnKS2CDHMCRErIuQUvwDnIyfblEoVFCLLHwxyZBMUlix1OLsBN3zWTmSXRIveFLRy6M-KzcH5-hdyMjyTqrMGrwmJeb_rZRa\")
This ornate mansion on 100 acres of manicured lawns, flower gardens and trees started out in 1893 as the home of a wealthy lawyer and his wife. Having no children, the couple left the property to the people of Richmond, Va. Maymont is now a city park and museum and hosts many weddings each year. Impeccably landscaped spaces include the Italian Garden with hundreds of brilliant blooms, the Japanese Garden with a terraced waterfall, and The Robins Nature Center with fish, turtles, and river otters.
\n\n\n\nFavorite Post: Teacher Appreciation
\n\n\n\n![\"\"/](\"https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/yOZ14a2mtfhjQC3xBxIx-mYBCCPVyh7tQL1hmu5Wq3D8x0UqzyOvCtRkBLprQSzaVNJA1SgOU61fF7AOFf7mJOlCRPXR4bf3_nhgxJidksdNlV3ZUSK3Qnz4xNxlIZO8RHwddQTk\")
The 1850 Settlement in San Antonio, Texas, offers a taste of the old Southwest. The property was homesteaded 170 years ago. Couples choosing this venue will find some of the original buildings still standing. Wedding guests will enjoy a spacious lawn, an outdoor firepit and enormous live oak trees, all set against the original homestead and The Settlement Stage Coach Station.
\n\n\n\nFavorite Post: Rainy Day Wedding
\n\n\n\n![\"\"/](\"https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/Qfyl2q_qxWVcZz7GggXH5thu7Ooqd0QPu5pZ70j7Pwi0iYv3fxTKKEc9Y86wY3jm4Wtzxp1J5aOrJSTw8KW1hIVCOTWzBIwFZ9h21hJaoJGcSXw8-FCdF31uOuX7izw0eKXELhYx\")
This 1894 home is modeled after the chateaus and castles in Belgium and France, as its original owner was Ambassador to Belgium in the early 1890s. The historic house in San Antonio, Texas, now functions as an inn and event venue. Couples who wed outdoors on the lawn have the arches of the mansion, well-kept shrubs, and plenty of mature trees as a backdrop.
\n\n\n\nFavorite Post: Afternoon Tea Party
\n\n\n\n![\"\"/](\"https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/I8kqEwrhb5qKz_f7KqAUvVbP_6tvJYlBrVm2FPzBJBQSOaEVsz8N1ZpK5brD-exS8-KROh8ysaH67OKLbPbb_y3dI87mx7ZGNwYfpmfyzV_lqE0ID8fEKV7OfNJ0J4KGgpm8_mrZ\")
Couples looking for European ambiance and charm in the Austin, Texas, area will find it at The Gardens of Cranesbury View. An Italian Sculptured Garden sits on 32 acres and features intricately designed hedges, rose bushes, and peaceful water features. An ornate gazebo with classic columns completes the picture-perfect look.
\n\n\n\nFavorite Post: Useful Wedding Favors for Family and Friends
\n\n\n\n![\"\"/](\"https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/PpKdUUSxa60QPPQyS5V1Ovog-zlPnOrk_kEMu8hXONPLrAzYcQpkmWaI6xnl7cf8q5NNwbw_o4ApA1K28mGH8d0cmV4j95_FaudqaBIhu3TnvUPzMiSROmoReMmjDyibNMP_dy89\")
Imagine having peacocks on your guest list. That’s the reality for couples who hold their ceremonies at Hummingbird Gardens in Tampa. This family-owned business has been around since 2005, filling the grounds with well-known and exotic plants, trees, and flowers. Wedding guests will see the peacock and his family roaming the gardens, as well as horses and chickens.
\n\n\n\nFavorite Post: Garden Nursery
\n\n\n\n![\"\"/](\"https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-A_HYDn5xQs1AdNEq-gRGttLB69laW1SrPU6_fB4CxTVEKoSVr_Exr_9qw23lYM1VdXPVgBlq_QCIvh2H6Q7wvdgL_BwY_2TSWLeYz3zVyV0gLYFe3Z-Xfmrc8wkqmZolYgM-E6p\")
Four acres of natural landscaping just seven minutes from the ocean make this the ultimate wedding venue for couples wanting greenery with a beach nearby. Country Villa in rural Virginia Beach, features white blooming bushes and trees behind a unique altar. You’ll also find a pavilion surrounded by mature pines, a spiral staircase attached to a vine-covered tree, and a bridge over a rock river surrounded by flowers.
\n\n\n\nFavorite Post: The Groom’s Room
\n\n\n\nDumbarton House
\n\n\n\n![\"\"/](\"https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/B0iZqhAo4heFaxBMnq3JrsVl5Unkha9ofQaTAFJFCz1xB2OIu2Ea8bqSBSHsBgujrZU2BZNg4F9R9xLBLsjqCQ8tpJ-UEHLr5xeuWrtJOQXQtZZQfb2IfpMQvcFmtOpLPBJDulkQ\")
Built in 1799, Dumbarton House offers a look at life in the earliest days of our nation’s capital city. The home is famous for being the place Dolley Madison first fled to when learning the British were coming during the War of 1812. These days, the museum is often used as a wedding venue. A courtyard paved with slate is among 1.2 acres of gardens and terraces, including an herb garden growing more than 40 varieties of plants.
\n\n\n\nFavorite Post: Dolley Madison
\n\n\n\n![\"\"/](\"https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/LCuW0U-zFxwSXRg6Mcr6j2ks18A-jcJ09DRVRyOILUXdsjiJ_ETy36f_RkoAaypUHc-ewVa7lIa44KyxO1eMx2AJqMXjnRCCy3rfaTSrL708c3viMaQ2dbb6kArOxHH7mB07iDn2\")
This landmark hotel in Washington, D.C., has hosted presidents and world leaders since 1930 and is a member of Historic Hotels of America. In 1933, the Omni Shoreham Hotel put on the first inaugural ball for President Franklin D. Roosevelt. Thirty years later, The Beatles booked the entire seventh floor. Today, the property boasts three garden wedding venues complete with trimmed hedges, cherry trees, tulip beds, and a pavilion on a vast lawn, all surrounded by a colorful forest.
\n\n\n\nFavorite Post: 48 Hours In Washington, D.C.
\n\n\n\n![\"\"/](\"https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/cvTy4qJc8PxFkGYiHsz1YDZ30x_hLm3T-A4g4TdCRWig7qXU-Uzsq962PzNShPILWqJSIXH0T2g6c_bljecCm4oVuzsc-Mmr_NRws3c2jqEWVdzerXzUbnJiXU6lLNQ6asPtCZk-\")
This private country estate in Jacksonville, Fla., was discovered by its owner five years ago as she was searching for a one-of-a-kind site for her own wedding. She took the rough space and put in the hard work to make it what it is today. The Keeler Property features Florida’s only covered bridge that’s open for both public and private events, a barn for rustic charm, all set on a lake and surrounded by trees.
\n\n\n\nFavorite Post: How Wedding Music Can Make — or Break — Your Reception
\n\n\n\n![\"\"/](\"https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/_4a5ZFiUV_WNnWwMxp9loxH1HiWAbGaEihQbaX_3wjf7FCUZMr3vtEvNQ2crviM92DHQd2xKJBFqwtVwKJViXTZKbUmSS7MzFVgG99yp_4bNMMrdIZz0IsYLBhveIGGNJvb6FlWx\")
More than a million people visit the Chicago Botanic Garden each year, some of them brides and grooms. The Garden is a living plant museum and conservation center situated on nine islands in the Cook County Forest Preserves. Wedding parties can choose from many spaces, including a canopied terrace next to the water, an English walled garden, the Rose Terrace with its water features and roses, and the Buehler Enabling Garden, with hanging baskets and vertical flower beds.
\n\n\n\nFavorite Post: The Elements of Design
\n\n\n\n![\"\"/](\"https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/i-jivfckafGtfkXtvCPktuueF0ti5RSX51Wedya85cf2r6M9l7Csx17Pgwe84WHf8W6l6TlHaugCh8m64NW2t0ZI7aEFhjPnHhwFqQHNIPhPL9THfxQnyV9K0da7usp5KCMUZ100\")
In an epic example of reuse and recycling, South Coast Botanic Garden in the Greater Los Angeles area is one of the first botanical gardens to be created over a sanitary landfill. The garden is proof that land reclamation can help solve refuse disposal problems while creating a brilliant and beautiful space. Couples and their wedding guests enjoy 87 acres of rolling meadows, vivid flowers, a rustic amphitheater, a gazebo and a shaded koi pond patio, experiencing first hand this unique example of environmental improvement.
\n\n\n\nFavorite Post: The Banyan Grove
\n\n\n\n![\"\"/](\"https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/5Udrz2Y-lFktEL8QF2RNrnYyK6wxScUZYEbbFLcC3FQMDc9VRvCTmKLeG__BVxIyL_zSoE5QRaKO-mUfc0AuFhyz48ly3J8e6VwTnKBYJ-Lhb_0hTqJkbxfRtcoEPYOTTE9JWRJU\")
The vision of Lisa Brannon, an Ohio native and avid conservationist, sprang to life nine years ago near Dayton, Ohio. While creating a refuge for endangered species, including monarch butterflies, she also came up with a perfect outdoor wedding venue. The backdrop is a Tuscan-style pavilion surrounded by an expansive lawn, trees, stone paths, a pond, and vivid flowers everywhere. Cedar Springs Pavilion bills itself as the place where elegance meets nature.
\n\n\n\nFavorite Post: Gardens
\n\n\n\n![\"\"/](\"https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/fYp_vMbfuGc5Aq-X97PGNf_ioh7jN6OhNvijpGBefDBrfaPLk_xdYpN754SahlA2MraVqr5wvQe3Yc-Del7YMk9q7hwtLYX9qVeAZYO5M0Frl4eX3fUHrpNqhrmfq5Enps7qYXwc\")
If you’re looking for a spectacular backdrop for your wedding, you can’t beat the Rocky Mountains. And if you’re looking for five-star luxury, The Little Nell has it. Located in Aspen, Colo., and named for an 1800s lady of the evening, it sits on land that’s been used as a summer hunting grounds for the Ute Indians, a place for miners to rest and a railroad depot. Today’s weddings at The Little Nell are nothing short of amazing, no manmade landscaping needed. Mother Nature already did that with jaw-dropping views of the mountains.
\n\n\n\nFavorite Post: Wine Experiences at the Little Nell
\n\n\n\n![\"\"/](\"https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/Y3rQ7_wiZcGTF53Ve6yMHPKq_4gBv7kKg3TAiUYy8rm_R2iS1ayG2Nigc-y1buCVmho7G9tWRd5OcSmUsqvfa1RfewV293d0lraWVuBgQnmwl_5t3jKPJJH2jOA8Ycfi9vdIcsDK\")
They really know how to throw a party here, as this 24,000-square-foot event center was designed specifically for weddings and banquets. Stonebrook Manor in Thornton, Colorado, features outdoor ceremonies in brightly colored gardens. The greenery is set among bubbling brooks and waterfalls with bridges, gazebos, arbors, and benches.
\n\n\n\nFavorite Post: 5 Ways to Make an Entrance at Your Wedding Reception
\n\n\n\n![\"\"/](\"https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/hVfO5sQf92bescAtovB8ULjaVCrw2YKUyBkkL0_c2m0ySyIgm_yrXagmVJe4cboUruIEVKEzQ7eYD9wUhTBa_dVBqQGR6IRTZw-ru_ckPghBK6s5z5ezgGMOCYUR_diVwmubMY2L\")
This living landscape is part of the University of Utah system and is a state arboretum in Salt Lake City. For 35 years Red Butte Garden has been connecting people to plants, with 100 acres of formal gardens, natural areas, waterfalls, and mountain views. Couples can say “I do” in the Rose House, the Rose Garden, or the Fragrance Garden where each spring, you’ll find a half million blooming bulbs.
\n\n\n\nFavorite Post: The Garden Misses You
\n\n\n\n![\"\"/](\"https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/dU2QHjJ2wRPTq0-hiYNXEA01AC2cJZ7UoJJeGWbkmSHncmRkOPFsctackOXjDs5p6kvr33mqdtJ0-pWIDGLMJkLq8Vd1yw9nxmZrEBNOh3vxt_tYavVf7Sk3RmtwKeuzsswCJkJU\")
Experience the Wild West with your wedding guests at This Is the Place Heritage Park in Salt Lake City. Featuring 50 historic homes and structures, train rides, panning for gold and mining, the Park takes you back in time. Couples have ten wedding venues to pick from, including two outdoor pavilions. The third option, The Garden Place, is a rustic mountain lodge with French doors that open to a patio with a waterfall, a massive outdoor fireplace, and, of course, a majestic mountain view.
\n\n\n\nFavorite Post: Pioneer Children’s Memorial
\n\n\n\nGetting married outdoors comes with the risk of a hiccup or two. You’ll have to worry about the weather and maybe a few uninvited mosquitoes. But the Wiki-award winning venues have you covered, literally. All have awnings or contingency plans for rain, and each has a bug zapper and plenty of bug spray on hand.
\n\n\n\nThe pros for choosing an outdoor wedding venue far outweigh the cons, especially when it comes to price. With the average couple spending more than $22,000 to get hitched, saving on flowers and other decor is a huge plus. Keep in mind, like real estate, the cost of any venue depends on location, location, location.
\n","title":"Best-Landscaped Outdoor Wedding Venues","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.7768595041322315,"src":"/static/992c26f9b1fc17e82e167ebd0e1b2902/1789c/best-landscaped-wedding-venue.jpg","srcSet":"/static/992c26f9b1fc17e82e167ebd0e1b2902/107df/best-landscaped-wedding-venue.jpg 320w,\n/static/992c26f9b1fc17e82e167ebd0e1b2902/293e9/best-landscaped-wedding-venue.jpg 500w,\n/static/992c26f9b1fc17e82e167ebd0e1b2902/f2cbb/best-landscaped-wedding-venue.jpg 800w,\n/static/992c26f9b1fc17e82e167ebd0e1b2902/1789c/best-landscaped-wedding-venue.jpg 960w,\n/static/992c26f9b1fc17e82e167ebd0e1b2902/1ff5b/best-landscaped-wedding-venue.jpg 1290w","srcWebp":"/static/992c26f9b1fc17e82e167ebd0e1b2902/1dd6e/best-landscaped-wedding-venue.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/992c26f9b1fc17e82e167ebd0e1b2902/67b76/best-landscaped-wedding-venue.webp 320w,\n/static/992c26f9b1fc17e82e167ebd0e1b2902/8df11/best-landscaped-wedding-venue.webp 500w,\n/static/992c26f9b1fc17e82e167ebd0e1b2902/98a65/best-landscaped-wedding-venue.webp 800w,\n/static/992c26f9b1fc17e82e167ebd0e1b2902/1dd6e/best-landscaped-wedding-venue.webp 960w,\n/static/992c26f9b1fc17e82e167ebd0e1b2902/bdec4/best-landscaped-wedding-venue.webp 1290w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"Best-Landscaped Outdoor Wedding Venues | Wikilawn","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":""}}},{"node":{"id":"644212a9-909a-5b8a-8d89-c22c5562a00c","slug":"grass-paver-driveway-why-how-build","path":"/blog/landscaping/grass-paver-driveway-why-how-build/","status":"publish","template":"","format":"standard","author":{"description":"Jay Keaton is a lawn care specialist who focuses on organic pest control. His yard is filled with chrysanthemums, basil, borage, marigolds and other plants that repel bugs.","name":"Jay Keaton","id":"aa1543ca-6fab-5e4b-bd0c-12f87aa13f51","path":"/author/jay-keaton/","avatar_urls":{"wordpress_96":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/6abb3b96ee2a6dcce741112f06af213b?s=96&d=mm&r=g"}},"categories":[{"id":"5bb57152-2e9b-5822-a133-bc84c122adab","name":"Landscaping","count":42,"path":"/category/blog/landscaping/"}],"date":"October 15th, 2019","excerpt":"Forget the rules about not driving on the grass. One of the newest trends is a green driveway — where the grass and the hardscape work together to create erosion control, flood prevention, and landscaping harmony. In other words, it looks good, and it’s good for you. Here are some tips on how and when […]
\n","content":"\nForget the rules about not driving on the grass. One of the newest trends is a green driveway — where the grass and the hardscape work together to create erosion control, flood prevention, and landscaping harmony. In other words, it looks good, and it’s good for you. Here are some tips on how and when to build a grass driveway.
\n\n\n\nAs cities and signs of human sprawl grow, so does the amount of impermeable cover, such as concrete parking lots and asphalt streets. That’s what’s causing more surface and stormwater pollution, putting a strain on the water table. As the city of Houston found out in 2017 when Hurricane Harvey hit, too many hardscapes cause widespread flooding.
\n\n\n\nThe United States Geological Survey reports, “In a developed watershed, much more water arrives into a stream much more quickly, resulting in an increased likelihood of more frequent and more severe flooding. Frequent flooding causes problems for residents and also the local government, which has to clean up sand and sediment deposited after a flood.” The less impervious hardscape you have, the more places rain or flood water has to go before it reaches your home.
\n\n\n\nPavement is also responsible for the urban heat island effect. If it feels like summer in cities are getting hotter, you can thank all the impermeable surface.
\n\n\n\nOne solution at home could be a grass driveway.
\n\n\n\nGrass driveways are made with stormwater permeable pavers — essentially, pavers with holes where grass can grow through. Water runoff is absorbed into the grass and soil, not the streets and sewer system. It reduces the amount of impermeable cover around your home, making it more environmentally friendly, and lowers your risk of flooding.
\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/grass-paver-driveway-center-for-watershed-protection-cc20-1024x768.jpg\")
In addition to the environmental reasons, homeowners considering expanding their buildings may have reason to consider a grass driveway. Many government agencies restrict the total amount of impervious cover on individual properties. For you to get that building permit to add on a master bedroom or a new patio, you may have to reduce your impervious footprint elsewhere on the property. Grass driveways represent one way to do so.
\n\n\n\n![\"\"/](\"https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/hg23Ec8bDHP9tfpJgmqkNBqCRv0iX8u_WfcLMYCtiPk8rPWSvFWRhBKD4bO5hokj5AGv4KFlKd36zwhcPZPXUUSaxcLDkaGqzdXy528joJes04TQIXCquOAi_Xq30lwhEOkRyNpB\")
Grass pavers, also known as grow-through pavers, will cost a little more than traditional driveway pavers.
\n\n\n\nThere are plenty of advantages to using them. There are also some drawbacks.
\n\n\n\nIn addition to preventing flooding, erosion, and stormwater runoff, you’re surrounding your home with more greenery. The more green there is in your environment, the better it is for your mental health. It’s also aesthetically pleasing and looks much nicer than a traditional concrete driveway.
\n\n\n\nThe plastic pavers are durable and can support the weight of several cars, so, yes you will have drivable grass. That’s why some businesses are now using the concept for their parking lots. The paving kits offer easy installation, and unlike a concrete driveway or patio, you don’t need to hire a landscape designer for the project.
\n\n\n\nThink of grass as a thousand tiny plants. They produce oxygen and absorb carbon dioxide. A 25-square-foot area of healthy lawn provides enough oxygen for one adult. The carbon dioxide these plants absorb helps reduce global warming.
\n\n\n\nThe major downside is the maintenance. Like your lawn, a grass driveway will need mowing, edging, weeding, watering, and fertilizing. If you don’t want to use your lawn mower on your driveway, you might consider a gravel driveway. Gravel offers some of the same permeable cover benefits, but not the environmental perks of a grass driveway.
\n\n\n\nThe impact of our hardscaped world can’t be denied. Whether it’s a riverbank worn away by erosion, or groundwater that isn’t replenished and more severe flooding, stormwater causes lots of damage. One grass strip may not change the world, but it’s one step in the right direction — and it looks good, too.
\n\n\n\nMain image credit: “Driveway,” Jeremy Reding, CC-bySA-2.0
\n","title":"Grass Driveways: Why, How to Build One","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.5005861664712778,"src":"/static/c902518dfa7e85fe01aa3a3d87f3fef0/1789c/rsz_grass-driveway-pervious-pavers-jeremy-reding-cc20.jpg","srcSet":"/static/c902518dfa7e85fe01aa3a3d87f3fef0/107df/rsz_grass-driveway-pervious-pavers-jeremy-reding-cc20.jpg 320w,\n/static/c902518dfa7e85fe01aa3a3d87f3fef0/293e9/rsz_grass-driveway-pervious-pavers-jeremy-reding-cc20.jpg 500w,\n/static/c902518dfa7e85fe01aa3a3d87f3fef0/f2cbb/rsz_grass-driveway-pervious-pavers-jeremy-reding-cc20.jpg 800w,\n/static/c902518dfa7e85fe01aa3a3d87f3fef0/1789c/rsz_grass-driveway-pervious-pavers-jeremy-reding-cc20.jpg 960w,\n/static/c902518dfa7e85fe01aa3a3d87f3fef0/356ef/rsz_grass-driveway-pervious-pavers-jeremy-reding-cc20.jpg 1280w","srcWebp":"/static/c902518dfa7e85fe01aa3a3d87f3fef0/1dd6e/rsz_grass-driveway-pervious-pavers-jeremy-reding-cc20.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/c902518dfa7e85fe01aa3a3d87f3fef0/67b76/rsz_grass-driveway-pervious-pavers-jeremy-reding-cc20.webp 320w,\n/static/c902518dfa7e85fe01aa3a3d87f3fef0/8df11/rsz_grass-driveway-pervious-pavers-jeremy-reding-cc20.webp 500w,\n/static/c902518dfa7e85fe01aa3a3d87f3fef0/98a65/rsz_grass-driveway-pervious-pavers-jeremy-reding-cc20.webp 800w,\n/static/c902518dfa7e85fe01aa3a3d87f3fef0/1dd6e/rsz_grass-driveway-pervious-pavers-jeremy-reding-cc20.webp 960w,\n/static/c902518dfa7e85fe01aa3a3d87f3fef0/93f70/rsz_grass-driveway-pervious-pavers-jeremy-reding-cc20.webp 1280w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"Grass Driveways: Why, How to Build One | Wikilawn","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":""}}},{"node":{"id":"e49bd466-a000-52af-90a9-0723a40d9303","slug":"low-maintenance-landscaping-birmingham","path":"/lawn-care/al/birmingham/low-maintenance-landscaping-birmingham/","status":"publish","template":"","format":"standard","author":{"description":"Michelle Selzer is a web developer, technical writer, and Linux enthusiast from the hills of Tennessee. Her hobbies include collecting toys, hiking to waterfalls, and writing short fan-fiction stories.","name":"Michelle Selzer","id":"ce795c2b-f287-56e6-a311-f91628ed456a","path":"/author/michelle-selzer/","avatar_urls":{"wordpress_96":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/f05a59712d75dec705cc9870b2f909e7?s=96&d=mm&r=g"}},"categories":[{"id":"f574154e-1209-591b-9c1d-0250dfe4c10b","name":"Alabama","count":6,"path":"/category/lawn-care/al/"},{"id":"17db6bdd-4802-5368-a598-f1f632ae1e64","name":"Birmingham","count":3,"path":"/category/lawn-care/al/birmingham/"},{"id":"5bb57152-2e9b-5822-a133-bc84c122adab","name":"Landscaping","count":42,"path":"/category/blog/landscaping/"}],"date":"April 16th, 2023","excerpt":"Living in a warm climate means maintaining plants year-round, which can be exhausting, especially when you’re boiling in the blaring Birmingham sun. So, many homeowners choose low-maintenance landscaping ideas for Birmingham, including native plants, succulents, and grass alternatives. Spending a lot of time working on the yard is a shame when you could be dining […]
\n","content":"\nLiving in a warm climate means maintaining plants year-round, which can be exhausting, especially when you’re boiling in the blaring Birmingham sun. So, many homeowners choose low-maintenance landscaping ideas for Birmingham, including native plants, succulents, and grass alternatives.
\n\n\n\nSpending a lot of time working on the yard is a shame when you could be dining at Saw’s BBQ or hiking at Red Mountain Park. So we break down the best ways to achieve a low-maintenance yard, including prices and examples.
\n\n\n\nIn this article:
\n\n\n\n![\"Purple](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Plant-Perennials.jpg\")
Photo Credit: PxHere
\n\n\n\nAll flowering plants go through similar life stages, but perennials repeat their life cycle, living for at least three years. In contrast, annual plants only live one year, so you must continuously replant your garden. Furthermore, many perennials can thrive even when only given well-drained soil and sunshine.
\n\n\n\nHowever, because perennials live for years, proper planning is crucial. Dividing a single plant into multiples controls the size of the plant, so its roots spread out and take in more water and nutrition. Smaller plants also provide greater flexibility with plant placement and garden design. The best time to divide your perennials is in the fall, about six weeks before the first frost.
\n\n\n\nExamples of low-maintenance perennials that thrive in Birmingham’s climate include the following:
\n\n\n\nAdvantages of perennials:
\n\n\n\nEstimated cost: Perennial plants tend to cost more than annuals, typically costing $10 to $100 per plant. However, many perennials can grow from seeds, and a package of single plant seeds is usually less than $2. To start a wildflower garden, you can buy a bag of mixed perennial wildflower seeds for $10 to $25.
\n\n\n\nAlabama is home to some of North America’s most magnificent trees, flowers, and vines. Native plants require less maintenance than foreign species because they naturally thrive in Birmingham’s environment. As a result, flower beds filled with native perennials require minimal watering, fertilization, and soil amendments.
\n\n\n\nNative plants are also fantastic for Birmingham’s ecosystem because they support local wildlife and don’t disturb their habitat. Pollinators like butterflies and bumble bees prefer native nectar, while birds feast on native seeds. Birmingham’s native herbivores, such as white-tailed deer and eastern cottontail rabbits, enjoy native leaves, nuts, and fruit.
\n\n\n\nExamples of Birmingham’s best native plants include the following:
\n\n\n\nAdvantages of native plants:
\n\n\n\nEstimated cost: Most native Birmingham plants cost $20 to $150, but the cost depends on the type of plant, its stage of maturity, rarity, and desirability. For example, immature native trees typically cost $35 to $200, but a mature tree can cost as much as $1,850. In contrast, vines and shrubs are usually less than $50 each. Many native plants also grow well from seeds, which can be taken from existing plants for free.
\n\n\n\n![\"Brown](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Pine-straw.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Pxhere
\n\n\n\nMulch can save you time in the yard while dramatically improving the curb appeal of your Alabama landscape. Because mulch shades the soil, less water evaporates, allowing you to water less often. Additionally, mulch prevents weeds from sprouting by barricading the earth.
\n\n\n\nThere are organic and inorganic mulch options, but in most cases, organic mulch is superior. As organic mulch decomposes, it adds nutrients to the soil. On the other hand, some inorganic mulches, such as rubber mulch, deteriorate the soil’s quality. Although both types block weeds and look pretty, organic mulch is better at retaining soil moisture.
\n\n\n\nExamples of organic mulch include:
\n\n\n\nExamples of inorganic mulch include:
\n\n\n\nAdvantages of mulch:
\n\n\n\nEstimated cost: Most mulch costs $45 to $130 per cubic yard or $3 to $7 per bag. Organic mulch typically costs $50 to $150 per cubic yard, while inorganic is usually $20 to $400 per cubic yard. Straw, pine bark, gravel, and plastic are some of the most affordable mulches, while rubber mulch, crushed sea shells, and pine needles are among the most expensive.
\n\n\n\nHardscape includes all the non-living, man-made structures in your yard, so adding more reduces yard work and improves your outdoor living experience. For example, some Brummies enjoy sipping sweet tea beneath the partial shade of a pergola, while others prefer gathering around a fire pit on a cool November night.
\n\n\n\nExamples of hardscaping include the following:
\n\n\n\nAdvantages of hardscape:
\n\n\n\nEstimated cost: The cost of hardscape varies depending on the structure. For example, most fire pits cost $250 to $2,200, while you can expect to pay $2,100 to $6,000 for a pergola. A typical walkway ranges from $335 to $2,840, and a composite deck usually costs about $8,850.
\n\n\n\nDerived from the Greek word “xeros”, which means dry, xeriscaping is a style of landscaping that requires little to no water. Examples include replacing a portion of the lawn with a rock garden and selecting native plants and succulents that require minimal irrigation.
\n\n\n\nBy reducing water usage, xeriscaping saves you money and time watering the yard. Furthermore, xeriscaping typically requires no fertilization and very little pruning
\n\n\n\nExamples of xeriscaping include the following:
\n\n\n\nAdvantages of xeriscaping:
\n\n\n\nEstimated cost: Including labor and materials, most xeriscaping costs $5 to $20 per square foot. Expect xeric plants to cost $9 to $70 and ground cover to cost $10 to $25. The average drought-tolerant tree costs about $300, and rocks typically cost $40 to $140 per cubic yard. Most landscape architects charge $60 to $175 per hour.
\n\n\n\nEven Birmingham’s best grass types require a lot of maintenance, but groundcover is a low-maintenance alternative to traditional lawns. Groundcovers, like creeping thyme, add beauty, color, and fragrance to your landscape. Best of all, the groundcover doesn’t have to be mowed and rarely requires fertilization.
\n\n\n\nExamples of groundcover include:
\n\n\n\nAdvantages of groundcover:
\n\n\n\nEstimated cost: Groundcover typically costs $10 to $25 per plant.
\n\n\n\nIs caring for the grass bogging you down? Natural grass requires regular mowing, fertilization, sunshine, well-drained soil, and much TLC. In contrast, artificial grass just needs occasional cleaning, allowing you to have a beautiful lawn that requires next to no work.
\n\n\n\nHowever, artificial grass isn’t an exact match, and some homeowners prefer the feeling of natural grass between their toes. Although replacing your existing turf with artificial grass requires a hefty upfront investment, you’ll save time and money on maintenance.
\n\n\n\nAdvantages of artificial grass:
\n\n\n\nEstimated cost: Expect to pay about $3,000 to $7,000 to replace your lawn with artificial turf, which is about $5.50 to $20 per square foot.
\n\n\n\nSucculents are fleshy plants (e.g., cacti) that store water in their leaves or stem. Because they stockpile water, they are drought tolerant and require minimal care. They can thrive indoors or outdoors and are standard features in xeriscaping.
\n\n\n\nSucculents are also very forgiving, making them great for new gardeners. I grew my first succulent in the second grade, took it home, put it on the window sill, then forgot about it for months. Finally, I came back to a sickly brown plant, added a little water, and it flourished. That plant survived to see me graduate high school, even with inconsistent care.
\n\n\n\nExamples of succulents for your Birmingham landscape include:
\n\n\n\nAdvantages of succulents:
\n\n\n\nEstimated cost: Most succulents cost $10 to $75 per plant, but prices vary depending on the size and species. For example, most aloe vera plants cost $10 to $20 per plant, but large aloe plants can cost $30 to $150.
\n\n\n\nCreeping phlox is an attractive yet inexpensive ground cover that thrives in Birmingham’s soil.
Planting perennials and native plants from seeds is the cheapest way to start a garden. Most seed packs cost under $2, and gardening groups often have seed exchanges. You can save more money by using DIY fertilizers made from existing organic material, such as grass clippings or a compost pile.
However, if growing it from seed isn’t an option, save money by buying less mature plants. For example, purchasing a small tree that won’t produce fruit for years is much more affordable than buying a mature fruit tree.
Butterflies are attracted to the colorful petals of Birmingham’s native Azaleas, such as pink azaleas (Rhododendron periclymenoides). In fact, nearly 20 species of azaleas are native to Alabama, and these plants don’t require a lot of care. However, they attract swallowtails, grey commas, and several other butterflies.
If you want to eliminate yard work, hire a landscaper to do it for you. Experienced professionals know how to maintain a lush lawn and gorgeous garden beds. However, even low-maintenance landscaping requires heavy lifting upfront, so contact a Birmingham lawn care pro to take that weight off your shoulders.
\n\n\n\nMain Photo by: PxFuel
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\n","content":"\nBirmingham is a southern hub for music, art, and history and home to some of Alabama’s most desirable native plants. Many homeowners prefer native vegetation because it’s low-maintenance and beneficial to the ecosystem. In addition, native plants attract more birds and butterflies. But the best native plants for Birmingham are also favored for their beauty and utility.
\n\n\n\nIn this article
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n![\"Green](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Oakleaf-Hydrangea-Hydrangea-quercifolia-W.-Bartram-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: David J. Stang / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0
\n\n\n\nAlabama’s beloved oakleaf hydrangea has been the state’s wildflower since 1999. Its white flowers bloom in the spring, then turn rose in the summer. Come fall, the native shrub’s green oak-shaped leaves turn a beautiful deep burgundy, and its flowers remain until mid-winter.
\n\n\n\nOakleaf hydrangea grows quickly, attracting deer and pollinators. It resists most pests but may get an occasional spider or aphid. Overall, the shrub is attractive and easy to care for.
\n\n\n\nPlant type: Shrub
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 5 to 9
\n\n\n\nSun: Partial to full shade
\n\n\n\nSoil: Fertile, moist, well-drained
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Deciduous
\n\n\n\nFragrance: Honey-vanilla
\n\n\n\nBloom time: Springa
\n\n\n\nWater needs: At least 1 inch a week
\n\n\n\nMature height: 6 to 8 feet
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: They resist pests, but sometimes get spiders or aphids and they are susceptible to leaf bright or powdery mildew.
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: Low-maintenance, only prune if the plant gets damaged or becomes overgrown. You may remove dead flowers.
\n\n\n\nThe southern sugar maple makes an attractive street-side, specimen, or woodland tree. Its green leaves create a symmetrical oval that turns deep shades of yellow, orange, and red, making a spectacular fall display. Then, in early spring, the ends of its branches bloom clusters of small yellow-green flowers.
\n\n\n\nIt has a strong bark that resists breakage, but sometimes it develops shallow roots. Thus, it’s best to avoid mowing the grass beneath them. Although it is too small to produce maple syrup commercially, southern sugar maple syrup isn’t any less delicious than its commercial competitors.
\n\n\n\nPlant type: Tree
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 6 to 9
\n\n\n\nSun: Full sun to deep shade
\n\n\n\nSoil: Clay, loam, sand (prefers rich loamy soil)
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Deciduous
\n\n\n\nFragrance: Sweet and sometimes spicey, almond or cherry scent
\n\n\n\nBloom time: Early spring
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Medium, High drought-tolerance
\n\n\n\nMature height: 20 to 70 feet
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: They can attract aphids, borders, and scale insects and are susceptible to diseases including leaf spot, tar spot, and verticillium wilt.
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: Low-maintenance, only prune if necessary and only water in times of drought.
\n\n\n\n![\"butterfly](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Wavyleaf-Purple-Coneflower-Echinacea-simulata-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: PickPik
\n\n\n\nWavyleaf purple coneflowers have showy pink and purple flowers that bloom in the spring and summer. Known for their beauty, the flowers feature long drooping petals with a dark center. Many gardeners use its freshly cut flowers in bouquets or dry the flowers to make tea.
\n\n\n\nThis native herb is a top pick for wildlife lovers. Its sweet nectar attracts butterflies, bumble bees, and other pollinators, while its fruit seeds attract various birds. Although wavyleaf purple coneflowers aren’t prone to insect damage or disease, they may attract the Japanese beetle and they occasionally get infected by leaf spot.
\n\n\n\nPlant type: Herb
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 5 to 8
\n\n\n\nSun: Full sun to partial shade
\n\n\n\nSoil: Well-drained, calcareous, loam
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Deciduous
\n\n\n\nFragrance: Light and sweet
\n\n\n\nBloom time: June – August
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Medium
\n\n\n\nMature height: 2 to 3 feet
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Occasionally gets leaf spot and may attract the Japanese beetle.
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: Separate clumps when overcrowding occurs. Removing dead flowers isn’t required, but improves the plant’s appearance.
\n\n\n\n![\"Yellow](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Largeflower-Tickseed-Coreopsis-grandiflora.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Pxfuel
\n\n\n\nDue to its beautiful bright yellow flowers, largeflower tickseed is common in Birmingham’s butterfly, rock, and wildflower gardens. In wildflower gardens, they are a delightful companion to wavyleaf purple coneflowers or black-eyed Susans.
\n\n\n\nBecause butterflies, bumble bees, and hummingbirds love its nectar, largeflower tickseed is great for Biringham’s ecosystem. It is also the perfect plant for homeowners with small children or pets because it’s entirely non-toxic. Additionally, it’s low-maintenance, requiring minimal care.
\n\n\n\nPlant type: Herb
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 4 to 9
\n\n\n\nSun: Full sun
\n\n\n\nSoil: Well-drained, sand, loam, clay
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial, biennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Semi-deciduous
\n\n\n\nFragrance: Sweet, spicey
\n\n\n\nBloom time: Summer and fall
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Drought tolerant, 1 inch per week
\n\n\n\nMature height: 1.5 to 2.5 feet
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Some people are allergic to tickseed. They are susceptible to fungal diseases such as powdery mildew. They may attract aphids, aster leafhoppers, or coreopsis beetles.
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: Low-maintenance, fertilize and deadhead to encourage robust blooms.
\n\n\n\n![\"White](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Flowering-Dogwood-Cornus-florida.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Eric Hunt / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0
\n\n\n\nThe flowering dogwood is one of North America’s most attractive native trees. In early spring, it blooms small yellow-green flowers surrounded by magnificent pink and white petal-like leaves. When the weather cools, its breathtaking fall foliage includes bright red, scarlet, and purple leaves above its uniquely patterned trunk.
\n\n\n\nHowever, the flowering dogwood isn’t just coveted for its looks. You can use its hardwood to make household tools such as rakes and butcher blocks and its roots to make red dye. It’s also great for local wildlife, attracting birds and butterflies.
\n\n\n\nPlant type: Tree
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 5-9
\n\n\n\nSun: Partial shade
\n\n\n\nSoil: Organically rich, moist, acidic soil
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Deciduous
\n\n\n\nFragrance: Sweet floral
\n\n\n\nBloom time: Early spring
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Low
\n\n\n\nMature height: 15 – 30 feet, but can be up to 65 feet
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Contact with its berries give some people rashes. It is susceptible to fungal diseases including powdery mildew and spot anthracnose.
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: Prune in early spring and fertilize during spring and fall.
\n\n\n\n![\"Pussytoes](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Pussytoes-Antennaria-Gaertn.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Jason Hollinger / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\nConsider pussytoes if you’re looking for natural ground cover for a rock garden or pathway. The herb sprouts pollinator-friendly white and pink flowers in early spring. However, pussytoes don’t attract many pests and are left alone by most herbivores, including rabbits and deer. Although pussytoes resist most diseases, they may get root rot if overwatered.
\n\n\n\nPlant type: Herb
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 3 to 8
\n\n\n\nSun: Full sun
\n\n\n\nSoil: Well-drained
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Semi-evergreen
\n\n\n\nFragrance: None
\n\n\n\nBloom time: April – June
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Dry to medium, Drought tolerant
\n\n\n\nMature height: 3 to 9 inches
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: If the soil is too moist, it can get root rot. You may get an allergic reaction if you are sensitive to ragweed, daisies, and marigolds.
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: Low-maintenance, removing dead flower heads will improve the plant’s appearance.
\n\n\n\nThe American chestnut tree is a fast-growing, fruit-bearing tree with edible nuts. Although this native-American tree was once common, its population has dwindled since the introduction of the Chinese chestnut tree. When the Chinese chestnut tree came to North America, it brought a fungal disease called chestnut blight, killing billions of American chestnuts.
\n\n\n\nAlthough mature American chestnuts are almost extinct, several new seedlings flourish in Jefferson and Shelby. For centuries, indigenous people used its hardwood for building, its nuts for eating, and its leaves and bark for medicine.
\n\n\n\nPlant type: Tree
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 4 to 9
\n\n\n\nSun: Full sun for nut production, but they grow fastest with 30% shade
\n\n\n\nSoil: Well-drained and acidic sandy or loamy soil
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Deciduous
\n\n\n\nFragrance: Organic
\n\n\n\nBloom time: June
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Drought-tolerant, but they benefit from weekly to bi-weekly watering in times of drought
\n\n\n\nMature height: 100 to 120 feet
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Although they are non-toxic, its berries contain berberine which is known to cause stomach aches. It is susceptible to chestnut blight.
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: Remove damaged branches and portions that become infected by disease. Winter and summer are the best times to prune.
\n\n\n\n![\"Yellow](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Yellow-Honeysuckle-Lonicera-flava-Sims-3.jpg\")
Photo Credit: PxHere
\n\n\n\nYellow honeysuckle is a native vine with showy sweet-smelling flowers that attract butterflies and hummingbirds. Its orange and red berries are harmful to humans but a welcome treat to many birds, including songbirds and robins. Additionally, it attracts many small mammals.
\n\n\n\nThis sometimes shrub-like climbing vine is often displayed on trellises, fences, and in bird gardens. In addition, yellow honeysuckle makes an attractive ground cover.
\n\n\n\nPlant type: Vine
\n\n\n\nUSDA Hardiness Zone: 5 to 8
\n\n\n\nSun: Full sun to partial shade
\n\n\n\nSoil: Moist, well-drained clay, loam, sand
\n\n\n\nDuration: Perennial
\n\n\n\nFoliage: Deciduous
\n\n\n\nFragrance: Sweet
\n\n\n\nBloom time: May – June
\n\n\n\nWater needs: Medium
\n\n\n\nMature height: 10 to 20 feet
\n\n\n\nPotential hazards: Its berries are mildly poisonous.
\n\n\n\nMaintenance needs: Bark mulch helps to keep the soil moist and weed-free, and applying compost and organic fertilizer in the spring keeps it healthy. Prune yellow honeysuckle each year, around summer, to inspire growth.
\n\n\n\nWhen choosing Alabamian native plants, please consider the following:
\n\n\n\n Native plants naturally grow and evolve in Birmingham, and there is typically evidence that they were here before European colonization. They are a fantastic low-maintenance landscaping Idea for Birmingham that also helps support the local ecosystem.
Pollinators like nectar producing native plants, including:
• Hydrangeas
• Coneflowers
• Tickseed
• Flowering Dogwood
• Pussytoes
• Honeysuckle
• Buttercups
• Sunflowers
Not all foreign plants are invasive. Invasive plants have the following qualities:
• Well adapted to the climate
• Quickly spreads
• Harmful to native plants and wildlife
Birmingham’s most poisonous native plants include:
• Eastern poison ivy
• Poison oak
• Hemlock
The best grass types for Birmingham are warm-season grasses including:
• Bermudagrass
• Zoysiagrass
• Bahiagrass
• Centipedegrass
You can purchase Alabama native plants at the following shops:
\n\n\n\nAnd you can view native plants at the following nature preserves and gardens:
\n\n\n\nIn addition, Birmingham Botanical Gardens has a native seed exchange program for its members.
\n\n\n\nIf you need help planning a native plant garden, consider hiring a landscaper. Experienced lawn care pros in Birmingham can help you maintain a lush lawn and flourishing garden beds. Instead of burdening yourself with lawn work, take that time to visit the McWane Science Center or take a stroll through Railroad Park.
\n\n\n\nMain Photo by: Pixabay
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\n","content":"\nIf you have ever tried tackling your own landscape design you might have been overwhelmed by all the choices that need to be made. From plant selection to boulder placement; scheduling deliveries of bulk materials and of course the many hours required to actually install all of your beautiful new additions. With all the moving pieces that come with home DIY projects, it can be easy to forget some pieces to the puzzle that will ultimately give you the most complete package.
\n\n\n\n\tOne simple solution to this problem is to enlist the services of a landscape design professional, either a licensed landscape architect or a landscape designer depending on the type of design work you are looking to include at your property. You might be thinking that a simple backyard makeover is too small for a project to need professional design advice. However, the long term benefits that come with the wide skill set of a professional designer far outweigh the seasons of replanting gardens and pulling up patios that just did not quite work.
\n\n\n\nIf you’ve made it this far, congratulations, you have made the smart choice to hire a professional to come alongside and guide you in the planning and design process. Maybe you have had some experience working with architects or interior designers and know what to expect or maybe this is your first time working with anyone in the design professions. The following article will give you a good idea of what to expect so you can best prepare for your first design meeting!
\n\n\n\n![\"\"/](\"https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/zHTXvYE5usmuYEYuXgAJ8rjbV9XvasPRmudLDs6uSVJO4WAxsoD-P86hwh7nJmKsqYCysMJpNZNQkQNxqmNbnGXZ-cO5yV38VObA0uGe59x0DhZpQY5VMTWneG2Fod5_P5gARDFKy4MO6J74ew\")
Landscape architects, and to some extent landscape designers, have years of formal training in subjects ranging from design theory, horticulture, art history, and psychology to name a few. Because of this extensive training, working with a landscape design professional will help kick-start your idea generation. The ability to be abundant with ideas and to spin one idea into a new and improved theory using past experience and industry expertise is a unique talent of design professionals.
\n\n\n\nEvery parcel or lot of land is unique in many ways, not just different shapes, sizes, and geographical locations, but also being part of a larger ecosystem, having challenging topographic qualities or just numerous utility and municipal setbacks that all require consideration. A professional landscape architect will have the skill to understand the macrocosm and microcosms that will dictate the broad-brush strokes of design. They will also have the refined talent to read the site-specific details, which define the unique elements of a single area of focus.
\n\n\n\nOnce there is a clear analysis of the project site, it is possible to come up with conceptual design ideas to contemplate. Every site has multiple solutions, but when the background research has been done thoroughly, a professional landscape designer will be able to narrow down the options to a concept that answers the needs, wants and wishes of the landowner while addressing the ecosystem characteristics presented in the existing landscape.
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nAs a landscape architect, I know that when I first meet with a client more than likely they have been giving a great deal of consideration to how they want their property to be designed. Time and experience have taught me, however, that just because a home or property owner has an idea about what they want the final design outcomes to be, doesn’t mean that idea is actually buildable or sustainable. We can dream up some pretty wild stuff after all! By working with a seasoned professional, you can be assured that what you develop together will have the ability to not only be built but also to be sustained creating a longterm successful space.
\n\n\n\nUnderstanding what things cost is very important. We are all quite familiar with how much any development project cost. The design processes require unhampered imagination and creativity in the beginning, but once the direction and aesthetic are defined it is necessary to bring the project into the reality of money. A professional landscape designer will be able to reasonably provide a project budget range or ballpark budget through experience or be able to guide you through the pricing/bidding process so that you can determine whether to build the project all at once or to phase it in over a few years.
\n\n\n\nIt is greatly important to draw the momentum you and your designer created from the design process into the construction phase. Some designers work with in house contracting operations – known as Design/Build while other designers work solo and have developed strong relationships with professional landscape contractors that they are confident in working with or recommending. These relationships are very useful to anyone planning to hire installers for the construction phase.
\n\n\n\nOne of the real benefits of working with a professional landscape designer in the design development process is in having this person stick with you through the construction phase. Every project will have the potential to be improved upon as it is being built. Additionally, almost every project will have some “unknown” pop up during construction and it will be important to have someone with your best interest in mind on-site to make informed decisions. Having your designer close at hand, or as your project manager, will ensure that you capitalize on opportunity and minimize any unforeseen pitfalls.
\n\n\n\nTop Photo: carexdesigngroup.com
\n","title":"What to Expect When Working with a Landscape Architect/Design Professional","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.7777777777777777,"src":"/static/ad659476662edc36fc81eede83036b3e/1789c/landscape-architect.jpg","srcSet":"/static/ad659476662edc36fc81eede83036b3e/107df/landscape-architect.jpg 320w,\n/static/ad659476662edc36fc81eede83036b3e/293e9/landscape-architect.jpg 500w,\n/static/ad659476662edc36fc81eede83036b3e/f2cbb/landscape-architect.jpg 800w,\n/static/ad659476662edc36fc81eede83036b3e/1789c/landscape-architect.jpg 960w,\n/static/ad659476662edc36fc81eede83036b3e/a2a79/landscape-architect.jpg 1024w","srcWebp":"/static/ad659476662edc36fc81eede83036b3e/1dd6e/landscape-architect.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/ad659476662edc36fc81eede83036b3e/67b76/landscape-architect.webp 320w,\n/static/ad659476662edc36fc81eede83036b3e/8df11/landscape-architect.webp 500w,\n/static/ad659476662edc36fc81eede83036b3e/98a65/landscape-architect.webp 800w,\n/static/ad659476662edc36fc81eede83036b3e/1dd6e/landscape-architect.webp 960w,\n/static/ad659476662edc36fc81eede83036b3e/7aa54/landscape-architect.webp 1024w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"What to Expect When Working with a Landscape Architect/Design Professional | Wikilawn","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":""}}}],"postCity":{"node":{"name":"Richmond","slug":"richmond","state":{"name":"Virginia","slug":"va"},"suburbs":[{"name":"Colonial Heights","slug":"colonial-heights"},{"name":"Mechanicsville","slug":"mechanicsville"},{"name":"Powhatan","slug":"powhatan"},{"name":"Henrico","slug":"henrico"},{"name":"Petersburg","slug":"petersburg"},{"name":"Hopewell","slug":"hopewell"},{"name":"Chester","slug":"chester"},{"name":"Glen Allen","slug":"glen-allen"},{"name":"Chesterfield","slug":"chesterfield"},{"name":"Midlothian","slug":"midlothian"}],"parentCity":null}}}}}![\"Bunch](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/rsz_mountain_laurel_kalmia_latifolia.jpg\")
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