Woodland Gardens Use Native Plants

Somehow, the coming of spring awakes in me the same urge my mother referred as "itching to dig in the dirt." It excites the desire to explore the woods and streams for signs of life that have lain dormant under cover of snow. As a kid, I satisfied that urge by carrying a little notepad and writing down the "signs of spring" as I uncovered them. As a grownup, I have long given up note taking (although I do spend a good deal of time writing about gardening) and turned my attention to collecting native plants and flowers to create a woodland garden.

Match the lighting to the plants

Although it may be tempting to bring home that adorable little plant and hope that it will survive in your garden, matching the lighting a closely as possible is necessary. Nursery-grown plants may be a bit more forgiving and adapt to differences in lighting, but those grown in the wild seldom do.

Match the soil type

Plants depend on the soil to provide nutrients and moisture. Observe the soil in the area carefully and mimic it as closely as possible. Plants growing in humus-rich streambeds are not likely to perform well in dry sandy soil. Examine the soil and prepare the planting site ahead of time, when possible. I typically gather a bit of soil from area to use in the planting hole and amend the surrounding soil to match it as closely as I can.

Match the moisture levels

Plants have preferences for the amount of moisture in the soil. When digging up native plants, checking the moisture level is vital to your success in growing them in a woodland garden. Look around to determine whether the area floods in early spring, dries excessively between rains, or maintains even moisture. Mimicking these conditions is important.

Be mindful of tree growth

Plants that grow in evergreen forest may struggle under the cover of hardwood. Match the type of trees in your woodland garden to the trees in the area where the native plant grows.

Avoid endangered species

Before you begin your search for wildflowers and plants in your area, check with your local extension office to find out what plants in your area are endangered. Not only does moving these plants pose the risk of extinction, it can carry with it a hefty fine.

Seek permission from landowners

Always seek permission from landowners before exploring their land or gathering plants. Although many are more than happy to share a few plants, some are not. Many construction sites will allow you to gather plants in areas due to be bulldozed.

Check nurseries

Many plant supply companies and nurseries now carry wild plants that have been nursery grown. Buying these plants allows you to enjoy the beauty of native plants without the risks of destroying natural habitats.

A woodland garden provides room for native flowers and plants to grow and brings nature to your yard. Consider adding natural seating, such as stones or fallen logs, to the area. This provides you with a place to sit and enjoy the beauty without disrupting the natural beauty of nature.

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