Native Plants

Solve Shade Garden Challenges

- Lynn Steiner

1 To make an immediate impact, plant natives in groups of three or five, then allow them to weave around each other and fill in naturally over time.

Do you ever look around your neighborhood and notice that some of the landscapes look similar and have many of the same plants? Author Lynn Steiner offers tips to create a unique, easy-care landscape with native plants that will stand out from the crowd. In doing this, you'll increase the diversity of plants in your community and provide food and habitats for wildlife.

WHAT'S NATIVE? North American native plants were on this continent prior to Europeans' arrival and are naturally adapted to the soil and climate conditions where they grow. Lynn suggests choosing these plants for many garden situations as they suit your design and as long as they will grow well on your site.

Dwarf crested iris has pale blue or lavender flowers in early spring.

2❘ Save money with plant plugs if you have a large area to cover. Your local nursery may be able to order them for you if you plan ahead.

Grow woodland stonecrop in rock gardens or as a ground cover in full sun to part shade.