As gardeners, we’ve all been there – standing in our yards, surrounded by a sea of familiar flowers and foliage, wondering what else is out there to discover. The world of native plants is a vast and wondrous one, full of hidden gems waiting to be unearthed. In our premiere episode of the Fine Gardening podcast, we’re excited to introduce you to some of the most underappreciated native plant species in North America, as shared by our expert guests from two renowned botanical gardens.
Expert Insights from Two Botanical Gardens
Joining us on this episode are Melissa Starkey, marketing and communications manager and instructor at Mt. Cuba Center in Hockessin, Delaware, and Amy Galloway Medley, lead horticulturist at the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center at the University of Texas at Austin. Together, they’ll reveal some of their favorite native plant species that don’t always get the love they deserve from gardeners.
Mt. Cuba Center’s Melissa Starkey Shares Her Super Cool Native Plant Picks
Melissa’s enthusiasm for native plants is contagious, and she’s passionate about sharing her knowledge with gardeners of all levels. When it comes to underappreciated native plant species, Melissa has a few favorites that she just can’t get enough of. Let’s take a look at some of her top picks:
- Jacob’s ladder (Polemonium reptans, Zones 3–8)
- Wild bleeding heart (Dicentra eximia, Zones 3–9)
- Coral honeysuckle (Lonicera sempervirens, Zones 4–9)
- ‘Fireworks’ wrinkle leaf goldenrod (Solidago rugosa ‘Fireworks’, Zones 4–8)
Each of these plants has its own unique characteristics and growing requirements, but they all share one thing in common – they’re incredibly beautiful and rewarding to grow. Jacob’s ladder, for example, is a perennial that produces delicate blue flowers in the spring, while wild bleeding heart boasts heart-shaped flowers in shades of pink and white. Coral honeysuckle is a climber that produces bright red flowers in the summer, and ‘Fireworks’ wrinkle leaf goldenrod is a shrub that produces vibrant yellow flowers in the fall.
The Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center’s Amy Galloway Medley Shares Her Super Cool Native Plant Picks
Amy Galloway Medley is passionate about native plants and their importance in the ecosystem. She’s always on the lookout for new and exciting species to share with gardeners, and she’s got a few favorites that she thinks deserve more love. Let’s take a look at some of her top picks:
- Frostweed (Verbesina virginica, Zones 6–9)
- Plains fleabane (Erigeron modestus, Zones 5–9)
- Agarita (Mahonia trifoliata, Zones 7–9)
- Heartleaf skullcap (Scutellaria ovata, Zones 4–8)
Each of these plants has its own unique characteristics and growing requirements, but they all share one thing in common – they’re incredibly resilient and adaptable. Frostweed, for example, is a perennial that produces white flowers in the summer, while plains fleabane is an annual that produces small white flowers in the spring. Agarita is a shrub that produces yellow flowers in the fall, and heartleaf skullcap is a perennial that produces blue flowers in the summer.
The Benefits of Growing Native Plants
So why should you consider growing native plants in your garden? For starters, they’re incredibly low maintenance – they’re adapted to the local climate and soil conditions, so they require less water, fertilizer, and pruning. They’re also a great way to support local wildlife, as they provide food and shelter for pollinators, birds, and other animals. Plus, they’re often more resistant to pests and diseases, which means you’ll spend less time and money on pesticides and other chemicals.
According to the National Wildlife Federation, native plants are essential for maintaining healthy ecosystems. They provide food and shelter for native animals, which in turn helps to maintain the balance of the ecosystem. In fact, a study by the USDA found that native plants can support up to 30% more wildlife than non-native plants.
Challenges to Growing Native Plants
So why aren’t more gardeners growing native plants? For starters, they can be difficult to find in local nurseries and garden centers. Many native plant species are not widely available, which can make it hard to get your hands on the specific plants you want. Additionally, native plants can be more expensive than non-native plants, which can be a barrier for some gardeners.
Another challenge to growing native plants is their specific growing requirements. Many native plants require specific soil conditions, moisture levels, and sunlight exposure, which can be tricky to replicate in a home garden. However, with a little research and planning, it’s definitely possible to create a thriving native plant garden in your own backyard.
Practical Solutions for Growing Native Plants
So what can you do to overcome the challenges of growing native plants? Here are a few practical solutions to get you started:
1. Research Local Native Plant Species
Before you start planting, it’s essential to research the native plant species that are native to your area. This will help you choose plants that are well-suited to your local climate and soil conditions. You can use online resources like the USDA’s PLANTS database or consult with a local nursery or gardening expert to get recommendations.
2. Create a Native Plant Garden Plan
Once you’ve selected the native plant species you want to grow, it’s time to create a garden plan. Consider the specific growing requirements of each plant, including soil conditions, moisture levels, and sunlight exposure. You can use online tools like garden design software or consult with a local gardening expert to help you create a plan.
3. Start Small
Don’t try to tackle a large native plant garden all at once. Start small by planting a few native species in a small area of your yard. This will help you get a feel for the growing requirements of each plant and allow you to make adjustments as needed.
4. Join a Native Plant Community
Connecting with other native plant enthusiasts can be a great way to learn more about growing native plants and get advice from experienced gardeners. Consider joining a local native plant society or online community to connect with others who share your passion for native plants.
Conclusion
Growing native plants is a great way to support local wildlife, reduce your environmental impact, and create a beautiful and low-maintenance garden. While there may be some challenges to overcome, with a little research and planning, you can create a thriving native plant garden in your own backyard. By following the practical solutions outlined in this article, you’ll be well on your way to becoming a native plant expert and enjoying the many benefits that come with growing these incredible plants.
