Landscaping with native plants Native plants can be a great choice for creating an informal garden, or for perking up your existing central Ohio landscape.
But remember the old garden rule: the right plant for the right place. When you choose correctly, native plants may reduce the amount of time you spend caring for your garden – and increase the amount of time you spend cutting your flowers for indoor enjoyment.
Black-Eyed Susans thrive in many central Ohio landscapes.
What is a native plant?
Native plants are indigenous to an area and grow in the wild without human intervention. They have different niches – some like full sun found in prairies and fields, while others thrive in wetlands or glades. If you find the right match, native plants may:
• Require less maintenance • Help solve problems such as shady or wet areas • Offer four-season interest • Provide food and shelter for birds, insects and other wildlife According to the Ohio State University Extension, the best way to achieve success with native plants is by carefully choosing plants that match your site conditions. Before selecting your plants, observe and learn more about your sun exposure, soil texture and pH, fertility, moisture conditions, weed problems and history of use. You may be able to correct some deficiencies with soil amendments and other techniques.
But remember, these solutions may not be enough to create a match with a native plant you want to grow. The needs of native plants may differ from conventional landscape plants. Meadow and prairie species may become weak, spindly or surrounded by weeds if you fertilize. Woodland plants, on the other hand, may benefit from organic amendments such as compost. “Central Ohio has great diversity in plants, including many that thrive in adverse conditions,” says Daryl Hennessy, president of Hennessy Landscaping. “A growing number of homeowners are choosing native and drought-tolerant plants because they’re easy to grow, look nice and attract birds and beneficial insects.”
