Plant This, Not That: Native Plant Alternatives for Your Garden
Are you looking to spruce up your garden this season? While many popular landscaping plants may look beautiful, they may not be the best choice for your local ecosystem. In fact, planting non-native species can harm the environment by disrupting the natural balance of the area.
But don't worry, there are plenty of native plant alternatives that are just as lovely and can provide important benefits to local wildlife. Here are some examples of "plant this, not that" options for your garden:
Instead of planting Japanese Barberry…
try planting Blueberries
Japanese Barberry may look pretty, but it can easily spread and take over an area, which can be harmful to local ecosystems. Blueberries are a great alternative to Barberry because they provide a similar look with their small, bright (edible!) berries, and they are also native to North America.
Note: Blueberries are picky about their soil. A less picky option and one better suited to the West would be Golden Currant.
Highbush Blueberry
(Vaccinium corymbosum). Native blueberry bushes are found throughout North America.
Instead of planting Burning Bush…
try planting Red Osier Dogwood
While Burning Bush can add a pop of color to your garden, it can also be invasive and outcompete native plants. Red Osier Dogwood is a great alternative that can provide year-round interest with its red stems and white flowers.
Red osier dogwood
(Cornus sericea L. ssp. sericea) is the most widespread native species of dogwood in the US. It makes a showy garden plant for its foliage and bright red stems. (U.S. FOREST SERVICE)
Instead of planting Butterfly Bush…
try planting Bee Balm
While Butterfly Bush may attract butterflies, it can also spread and take over an area, which can harm the ecosystem. Bee Balm is a great alternative that also attracts butterflies, as well as bees and hummingbirds.
Bee Balm
(Monarda didyma), also known as Oswego Tea or Bergamot! With its vibrant blooms and sweet fragrance, this native North American plant is not only a favorite of birds & bees but also a lovely addition to any garden.
Remember, choosing native plants for your garden can help support local ecosystems and wildlife. Plus, they're often easier to maintain since they're already adapted to your area's climate and soil. So, next time you're tempted to plant a non-native species, consider a "plant this, not that" alternative instead!