perennials

Native Perennials for a Thriving, Low-Maintenance Garden

Isn’t it the dream to walk out into your garden after a long northeastern winter and see dozens of young plant life emerging at the start of spring? Wouldn’t you love to spend less time in the “outdoor” department every season and more time enjoying the fruits of a beautifully curated garden? One of the best paths to low-maintenance, high-impact, and thriving home gardens is knowing what to plant for your microclimate. Native plants are a great way to make the most of your outdoor space while giving back to the native pollinators and wildlife that make the Philadelphia-area unique. 

What Are the Benefits of Native Gardening?

Native gardening allows you to take a hands-off approach to gardening. They’re adapted to your property’s soil conditions and provide nectar, pollen, and seeds to the native wildlife. Because they are great for beneficial insects and fauna, native plants are also less likely to face pest and disease issues. 

In addition to the above benefits, native gardens are advantageous for several other reasons:

  • Native plants don’t have the same high-maintenance fertilizing regimen as exotics and tropicals.
  • Native lawns require fewer pesticides.
  • Native trees can establish robust root systems to prevent erosion. Healthy root systems also allow you to water your garden less. 
  • Native plants have positive effects on air pollution. 
  • Native plants provide necessary food and shelter to native wildlife.
  • Native plants promote biodiversity. 

Plants Native to Southeastern PA

There is a fantastic selection of native plants available to Southeastern PA property owners. While this is far from a complete list, here are some of the best perennial gardens include:

  • Columbine (Aquilegia canadensis)
  • Butterfly weed (Asclepias tuberosa)
  • Asters
  • Wild bleeding heart (Dicentra eximia)
  • Joe-pye weed (Eupatorium fistulosum)
  • Virginia bluebells (Mertensia virginica)

For more information about our garden center or plants, products, and supplies, contact us today!