When choosing plants to add to your yard in Minnesota, it’s wise to pick a mix of annuals that will only last for a growing season and perennials which, if cared for well, will return year after year. As you might imagine, the hardiest perennials are those which are native to Minnesota, and there are quite a few benefits to planting natives in your gardens.
Keep reading to learn more about why you should consider using MN native plants to enhance your home’s landscaping!
Top 6 Reasons to Plant Natives in Your Landscape
- They’re More Resilient – You’ll have an easier time growing Minnesota natives than non-native perennials because they’re meant to grow here! Native plants are more resilient to Minnesota’s cold winters, summer droughts and local pest species than any perennials not found in the area. This will make it much easier to keep them alive than a non-native perennial which may struggle to endure the extreme temperatures experienced in MN.
- They’re Easier to Care For – The maintenance needs of natives in your home landscape will be much less stringent than those of non-native plants. Because they’re well-suited to Minnesota’s climate, natives won’t need as much water as non-natives will and they probably won’t need much fertilizer, if they need it at all. Because they’re more resilient to local pest species, you won’t have to treat them with as many insecticides, either.
- They Have Tough Roots – Another advantage of native plants being accustomed to Minnesota is that they grow well in MN soil. If you plant natives in your home landscape, they’ll have no trouble taking root, and those roots will grow deep and strong. These sturdy, deep-running roots do a great job of storing water, which means you won’t have to water natives as diligently as other plants. Native plants’ tough root systems also protect your landscape against erosion and flooding.
- They Benefit Local Wildlife – Since they’re part of Minnesota’s ecosystem, native plants can provide much better shelter and sustenance to native wildlife species than non-native plants can. Planting native trees and shrubs in your landscape provides great nesting and hiding spots for native birds and mammals, who may also prefer to feed off of their nuts and seeds. Planting native wildflowers in your gardens is beneficial to native pollinators like bees and hummingbirds.
- They’re Environmentally Friendly – Air pollution from carbon dioxide is a growing threat around the world, and especially in urban environments such as the downtown Twin Cities. Native plants can help curb climate change by absorbing CO2, which will improve the air quality around your home. Native trees such as maples and oaks are especially beneficial in improving air quality, making them excellent additions to your landscape.
- Their Beauty Lasts – While annuals may look gorgeous during spring and summer, they’ll die off in fall and need to be replaced next spring. Even non-native perennials are prone to perishing in a particularly harsh winter, especially if not given enough TLC immediately before and after winter. By contrast, native flowers, shrubs and trees will bring a permanent beauty to your landscape. With minimal upkeep, they can survive and flourish outside your home for many years to come.
Landscaping With Natives in the Twin Cities
If you’d like to plant natives in your yard, why not collaborate with a team of experienced landscapers who have been doing it for years? Ground One is a Minnesota landscaping design and installation company with over thirty years of experience. Get in contact with Ground One today for landscaping services in the greater Twin Cities area!