Native Plants

Native Plants

Native Plants to Manage Water

Using Native Plants to Manage Water

It rains hard and often in spring, and then we have big puddles, muddy gardens and soggy lawns. Then midsummer comes and the garden is dry and hot. The plants are gasping for water and the soil is dry and cracked. Sound familiar? This is typical weather in Illinois, and it presents challenges that only native plants can meet.

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Native Plants in the Fall Garden

The native plants in my garden tell me when summer is beginning to turn toward autumn. Culver’s Root (Veronicastrum virginicum) is already blooming in the shady rain garden despite lack of rain. Royal Catchfly (Silene regia) grows tall and delicate in the butterfly garden, a stand-out because its blossom is the only true red among so many softer colors. Soon asters of many varieties will begin to bloom. Native grasses will not be far behind. When they and the goldenrods bloom, we know for sure that autumn is here.

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Why Is Milkweed So Important?

Monarchs and milkweed. They go together like a horse and carriage! Every gardener knows this now because of the recent public media campaign to save the Monarch butterflies from extinction. 

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9 Native Illinois Shrubs for Sun and Shade

Whether you have an area around your home that gets full sun or shade, is wet or dry, there is a native shrub option for you. Native shrubs are touted as easier to care for and provide ecosystems services like flowers for pollinators and berries for bird. When planting native shrubs, plant in groups and water during the establishment period.

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Native Plants

Native plants are becoming more popular in landscaping because of their restorative role for natural habitats critical for a healthy ecological system. These plants help to sustain birds, pollinators, and insects that contribute to the natural habitat.

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