What's the first step to start a native garden?
Written by
Liu Xiaohui
Reviewed by
Prof. Martin Thorne, Ph.D.Establishing a native garden can be as simple as choosing 3-5 keystone plants that have been proven to thrive within your local conditions. You want to select a species that realistically relates to your soil type and sun patterns. I started by choosing milkweed and purple coneflower in the shaded backyard. You start contributing to and impacting ecological patterns, even as a new learner in the native gardening process.
Evaluate your site conditions carefully first before making a plant selection. Pay attention to the daily patterns of sunlight. You can determine soil drainage by digging a hole a foot deep and timing how long it takes the water to soak in after filling the hole with water. After it rains, look where the water collects. For example, I learned my 'sunny' spot only received 4 hours of direct sunlight. Your choice of plants will be from those that are found growing naturally.
Site Preparation
- Remove invasive species completely
- Test soil pH and drainage
- Amend minimally with compost if needed
- Mark existing sunlight patterns
Plant Selection
- Choose 3 keystone plants for your region
- Include one host plant (e.g., milkweed)
- Add one nectar source (e.g., goldenrod)
- Select one grass for structure
Establishment Care
- Water deeply for first 8 weeks
- Mulch with native wood chips
- Monitor for pests without chemicals
- Allow natural leaf litter accumulation
To establish your new plants, group them based on their water needs. Establish some zones for dry-tolerant and moisture-loving plants. The area I chose for my rain garden does a good job of capturing runoff naturally. You are less likely to water and remain mindful of plant health. Grouping plants in this way will save you time and resources over time, which is a good idea.
Look forward to exhilarating shifts in your first year. Native plants establish rapidly in tolerable conditions. My milkweed had monarch caterpillars in three months! You see the ecological relationships occurring right away. Your ability to get early success gives you confidence to add more native plants to your garden.
Reach out to local native plant societies for guidance specific to your region. Many societies will have starter kits with species that are suited to your location. For example, I joined a local plant swap, where I gained three free native plants to add to my garden. This provides you with access to experts and affordable resources tailored to your specific area.
Take your first steps to transform your space into a native garden! Start by choosing your keystone plants. Once you know where you want the garden area, begin by preparing the area for planting. Water the plants and let nature take its course! With just a few selected native species, you will start to create habitat. You will soon have a diverse and healthy ecosystem!
Read the full article: 10 Essential Benefits of Native Plants
