Why Landscape With Native Plants?

Growing a great looking landscape is fun! Creating one that is healthy for people and wildlife is fun and rewarding. With native plants you'll see a whole new variety of birds and butterflies that now visit your yard. Get started today on creating a vibrant, living yard that provides year round interest. More about the plans...

About the Plans

Whether you are a seasoned gardener wanting to go native or just getting started you can use these landscaping plans to get ideas or for a complete yard makeover. The sample plans will not work for every yard and situation but you can use them to help you get started.

Common Themes in Each Plan

Layering: Large trees are placed in the back of the landscape. As you work toward the front of the landscape, low-growing species are included. This creates a feeling of a larger space and allows for the best viewing and enjoyment of the variety of species. Each plan includes evergreen and deciduous trees, shrubs and groundcovers or perennials.

Clustering of Like Species: To create a more natural aesthetic, several plants of similar species are planted together in "drifts" or clusters.

Creating Diversity: At least ten different species are included in each plan to create a more interesting landscape and attract a diversity of wildlife. The plants included provide food and shelter to a wide variety of wildlife species. Evergreen and deciduous species are found in each plan, as well.

Limited Species: No more than 15 species were included in each plan to keep the plans easy to use. Feel free to add more and exercise your creativity!

Constructed Environments: Lawns, patios or paths are featured in the sample plans to show examples of how plants can be landscaped around constructed features. They are not meant as recommendations for placement.

Additional Items to Consider

• Habitat Features: Brush or rock piles, standing dead trees
• Water Features: Birdbaths, ponds
• Feeders or bird houses
• Yard art, rockeries or other personal touches