Native Plants that will Flourish this Year

When it comes to landscaping, it’s important to do your research on what plants will do well in your climate, soil type, level of sunlight, etc. Something that’s equally important is understanding what plants are indigenous to your region. Why, you ask? Your landscaping choices have a meaningful impact on the environment around you.

What are native plants?

Like the name suggests, native plants are species that are indigenous to a particular geographical region. This includes plants that have developed, occur naturally, or have existed for many years in that area.

Why native plants?

Since native plants were made for the local environment, they are much more low-maintenance than an alien species. Naturally adapted to the climate, native plants tend to need less water to keep them thriving, saving you time, money, and water. These plants flourish, meaning when it comes time to bloom in the spring, they have vibrant blossoms.

Using native plants in your yard also helps sustain a balanced ecosystem. Native plants are the habitats for insects and birds, which help with pollination and more. Research suggests that an indigenous tree supports significantly more species of wildlife than an alien tree from a different region of the world.

What are my options?

Northern Virginia has tons of beautiful indigenous plant species for you to choose from while planning your yard for 2019. Here are just a few to consider:

Trees

Flowering Dogwood

Image via Gardenerdy

This tree has beautiful white flowers, and birds love its fruit.

Sweetbay Magnolia

Image via Gardening Know How

Another flowering tree, the creamy blossoms of the Sweetbay Magnolia give off a lovely vanilla fragrance.

Shrubs

Summersweet

Image via ProvenWinners

This compact shrub is great for a small garden. A plus? The flowers attract butterflies.

Virginia Sweetspire

Image via One Earth Botanical

Also known as “Little Henry”, Virginia Sweetspire starts as a lush green shrub with white flowers in the summer, and turns a gorgeous red come fall.

Flowers

Black Eyed Susans

Image via Almanac.com

An American classic and a member of the sunflower family, this cheerful flower is happy in all kinds of soil, including stubborn Virginia clay.

Tickseed

Image via ASPCA

Another bright and low-maintenance flower, tickseed blossoms in June and and lasts until frost.

There hundreds of other native plant options for your garden this year. Consider native plants as you plan for your 2019 landscape, and you may find your yard thriving.