Fall & Winter 2012: Volume 33, Numbers 3 & 4 - Missouri Prairie ...

SCOTT WOODBURY
Carol Davit
SCOTT WOODBURY
Clean edges, borders, and choosing the right plants for the landscaped space are all design elements and considerations that help create a positive
perception of native landscapes.
looking within a year. This easily
accepted style blends in with the more
traditional landscapes characteristic of
many neighborhoods.
Another approach is to create a
planting that mimics a natural habitat,
such as prairie, woodland, wetland,
etc. This style, sometimes referred to as
a “natural style,” is typically a seeded
landscape. The design consists of outlining
the area and compiling a list of
plant species and ratios to be used in the
seed mix. The area is prepared (existing
vegetation removed/killed) in late summer
to fall and seeding is done in early
winter. This type of project takes three
years to begin to mature—for two years
the area is mowed high to keep weeds
down and allow young seedlings to
become established. “Wild” landscapes
such as these are a contrast to many
“tidy” landscapes and may raise concern
with neighbors and weed ordinance
officials. In this instance the cues play a
key role—the wilder the look, the more
important are the structural elements
(paths, mowed areas, benches, etc.) and
strong, clean borders (mowed grass strip,
edging, etc.).
The intermediate style can be fun
and playful without causing concern
amongst neighbors. In this instance,
the design sets up a structural framework—strong
lines, repetition of plant
species, etc. Within this framework, the
plantings can be more natural. Another
method is to formalize the outer “public
view” edge (along the road and sidewalk)
with a more natural design inside.
Right Plants, Right Place
Where to begin? Settle on a design style.
While your design may be environmentally
friendly, your neighbors may not
understand that aspect of it. Have a
conversation with neighbors about your
intentions and reasons for a more natural
landscape.
The next step is to put a layout
of your property on paper. Include an
assessment of conditions—sun versus
shade, wet versus dry, and problem areas
that need addressing such as erosion,
need for screening, and replacing invasive
species. Refer to native plant field
guides and compare your situations to
habitats where native plants naturally
grow. Use the “right plant, right place”
philosophy to ensure success. Double
check plant cultural requirements at
the nursery where you plan to purchase
your plants and/or seeds. Consult the
extensive native plant database at www.
grownative.org. Landscaping with Native
Plants: A Gardeners Guide for Missouri,
a publication of Shaw Nature Reserve
(www.shawnature.org), is an additional
resource.
Another major challenge with native
landscapes is in the maintenance phase.
Many great designs fall apart because of
little or no maintenance. The first few
years are particularly crucial as plants
become established. This translates into
a tendency for nature to foil our plans of
a picturesque and bountiful landscape.
Weeds take advantage of open spaces, so
be vigilant. By year three, plant canopies
should adequately cover the ground
and out-compete weeds. Maintenance
eases up, but still be watchful of weeds.
Watering is essential in the first year to
give young plants a healthy start. Once
established, native plants require less irrigation
than most non-native plants.
Talk with other native plant gardeners
and visit native plant gardens. Most
importantly, start small and build on
your successes.
Horticulturist Cindy Gilberg owns Gilberg
Design and Consulting, has worked in the
Whitmire Wildflower Garden and Native
Plant School at Shaw Nature Reserve for
many years, and writes about native landscaping
for several publications. Cindy’s
article is made possible thanks to funding
from Shaw Nature Reserve.
Vol. 33 Nos. 3 & 4 Missouri Prairie Journal 23