With a diverse climate ranging from humid summers to mild winters, North Carolina has unique landscaping needs. Native plant landscaping is an ideal solution, allowing you to add aesthetic appeal to your property while making the most of your investment. Let’s explore some simple native plant landscaping tips for your home, community, or commercial location.
1. Research Native Plants That Thrive in North Carolina
For year-round color and visual interest, choose plants with a high tolerance to drought and humidity, such as:
- Eastern redbud: Dotted with pink blooms, this tree thrives in areas with good soil drainage.
- Sweetbay magnolia: This tree loves low-lying areas and is known for its fragrant white flowers and tolerance to wet soils.
- Carolina jessamine: With trumpet-shaped blooms and a sweet fragrance, this sprawling vine is ideal for trellises and fences.
- Black-eyed Susan: A ground-cover staple in many North Carolina gardens, this bright, drought-tolerant perennial attracts pollinators and prefers sunny, dry conditions.
2. Consider Sun and Soil Requirements
Considering native plants’ sun and soil requirements will help you avoid planting them in the wrong spot. For example, plants like purple coneflower and butterfly weed thrive in sunny locations.
Christmas fern prefers partial shade, while Carolina jessamine tolerates it. Likewise, foamflower prefers shade but will tolerate morning sun.
Many native plants like well-drained, slightly acidic soil, which is common in North Carolina’s Piedmont and Coastal Plain regions. To create a healthy landscape, try grouping plants with similar sun and soil needs.
3. Plan for Seasonal Interest
Planning your native plant landscaping around the seasons will help you create vibrant outdoor spaces all year. Dogwood and coral honeysuckle offer vibrant spring colors, while purple coneflower and butterfly weed bloom in summer, drawing in pollinators.
Sassafras and sweetgum are known for their fiery fall colors. For wintertime texture and color, try American holly and red twig dogwood.
4. Design for Pollinators and Wildlife
Essential for a healthy ecosystem, plants like milkweed, blazing star, and goldenrod provide food and habitats for birds, bees, and butterflies. North Carolina’s native oak trees also house many species of birds and insects.
Aim to include a mix of plants that support these local pollinators and help maintain ecological balance.
5. Incorporate Water-Wise Practices
With its varying rainfall, North Carolina may have areas with drier conditions in the summer. Here are some ways to conserve water:
- Use rain gardens to capture and absorb runoff, especially during heavy rains.
- Put mulch around plants to retain moisture and reduce watering needs.
- Incorporate drip irrigation systems to deliver water to plant roots efficiently.
- Add native plants such as sweetbay magnolia and switchgrass, which are drought-tolerant and help prevent soil erosion in coastal or hilly regions.
6. Balance Beauty With Functionality
Native plant landscaping can have functional purposes, too. Eastern red cedar or wax myrtle can serve as natural privacy screens. Switchgrass or little bluestem can define pathways or create visual boundaries. Native plants can also create shaded seating areas for added comfort.
Kick Off Your Native Plant Landscaping Project
No matter where you’re located in North Carolina, the right native plant landscaping can beautify your outdoor spaces while supporting the local ecosystem. You’ll save time and money on upkeep while creating stunning outdoor environments year-round.
If you’re ready to transform your landscape with native plants, contact Edge Landscape Co. Our experts can offer personalized tips on designing and installing a landscape that suits your North Carolina property.