Rhode Island Native Plants: Expert Tips for Gardening Success

Creating a garden using Rhode Island’s native plants not only helps preserve the local flora but also attracts beneficial wildlife. Here’s a quick guide to help you get started:

• Know Your Garden: Take time to understand your garden’s light, soil, and water conditions. This information is crucial in selecting suitable native plants.
• Mix It Up: Incorporate a variety of trees, shrubs, and perennials to ensure year-round interest and habitat for diverse wildlife.
• Start with Trees: Red Maple (Acer rubrum) and White Oak (Quercus alba) are native trees that offer excellent shade, beautiful foliage, and habitat for birds and small animals.
• Add Native Shrubs: Include shrubs like Spicebush (Lindera benzoin) and Summersweet (Clethra alnifolia), which offer fragrant blooms and vibrant fall colors, in your garden design.
• Sprinkle in Perennials: Try Rhode Island friendly perennials like Woodland Sunflower (Helianthus divaricatus) or Blue Flag Iris (Iris versicolor), which add a splash of color and attract pollinators.
• Consider Native Grasses: Grasses such as Little Bluestem bring texture and movement to your garden.
• Be Patient: Native plants can take some time to establish, but once they do, they require less maintenance than non-native species.
• Consult Local Resources: Local native plant societies and botanical gardens are treasure troves of information and can provide specific guidance.

By adopting these tips, you can create a garden that is both aesthetically pleasing and ecologically beneficial, promoting biodiversity in your own backyard.