Native Plants For Edging: Creating a Beautiful and Sustainable Landscape

Your garden's edge is often overlooked, but it can be transformed into a beautiful and sustainable part of your landscape by choosing native plants for edging. Native plants are an excellent choice for edging because they are well adapted to the local climate and soil conditions, making them easier to maintain. In addition, native plants provide habitat and food for local wildlife, while also reducing the need for water, fertilizer, and pesticides.

Why Choose Native Plants for Edging?

There are several reasons why native plants are an excellent choice for edging in your garden. First, they require less maintenance than non-native plants because they are already adapted to the local climate and soil conditions. This means that they are more resistant to pests and diseases, and they require less water and fertilizer. Second, native plants provide habitat and food for local wildlife such as birds, butterflies, and bees. Third, they help reduce erosion and runoff, which can help protect nearby waterways.

Examples of Native Plants for Edging

When selecting native plants for edging, there are many options to choose from. Here are some examples:

1. Black-Eyed Susan (Rudbeckia hirta)

The black-eyed Susan is a wildflower that is known for its bright yellow petals and dark center. It grows up to two feet tall and blooms in midsummer. Black-eyed Susans are easy to grow and attract butterflies and bees.

Black-Eyed Susan flowers

2. Little Bluestem (Schizachyrium scoparium)

Little bluestem is a native grass that grows up to three feet tall and has blue-green leaves that turn rusty orange in the fall. It is drought-tolerant and provides habitat for birds and insects.

Little Bluestem grass

3. Wild Bergamot (Monarda fistulosa)

Wild bergamot is a perennial herb with pink or lavender flowers that bloom in midsummer. It grows up to four feet tall and attracts hummingbirds, butterflies, and bees. The leaves can be used to make tea, and the plant has been used medicinally for centuries.

Wild Bergamot

4. Prairie Smoke (Geum triflorum)

Prairie smoke is a low-growing plant that has pink or red flowers that bloom in late spring. It grows up to one foot tall and spreads slowly. The plant produces feathery seed heads that resemble smoke, which gives it its name. Prairie smoke is an excellent choice for dry, sandy soils.

Prairie Smoke plants

Tips for Planting Native Plants for Edging

Here are some tips for planting native plants for edging:

1. Choose plants that are well adapted to your soil and climate.

Native plants are adapted to the local climate and soil conditions, so they are easier to maintain than non-native plants. Choose plants that are appropriate for your area.

2. Group plants according to their water needs.

Group plants together based on their water needs to ensure that they receive the right amount of water. This will help conserve water and reduce your water bill.

3. Use mulch to conserve moisture.

Apply a layer of mulch around your plants to help conserve moisture and prevent weeds from growing.

4. Prune regularly.

Prune your plants regularly to keep them looking neat and tidy. This will also promote healthy growth and flowering.

5. Plant in layers.

Plant your edging in layers, with taller plants in the back and shorter plants in the front. This will create depth and visual interest.

Native plants are an excellent choice for edging in your garden. They are well adapted to the local climate and soil conditions, making them easier to maintain, and they provide habitat and food for local wildlife. By using native plants for edging, you can create a beautiful and sustainable landscape that will be the envy of your neighbors.

Black-Eyed Susan, Little Bluestem, Wild Bergamot, Prairie Smoke, Native plants, Sustainable landscape, Edging