What is a native plant?
A plant that is a part of the balance of nature that has developed over hundreds or thousands of years in a particular region or ecosystem. (USDA definition)Why garden with native plants?
– providing food and habitat for wildlife – contributing to biodiversity – connecting us to our home places and helping us celebrate the things that make our regions unique – teaching us about the world of nature
And last, but not least, they’re beautiful!
Wild Ones members share their perspectives:Backyard Gardening for Nature by Michelle Kalantari (PDF)
Improving the Environment One Rain Garden at a Time
Tips for Native Plant Gardeners
Go to this page to learn about: Matching Your Plants to Your Site, Preparing Your Site, Planting Your Seeds and Seedlings, Maintaining Your Native Garden, Invasive Species
Native Plant Notebook
Go to this page for descriptions and photos of common native plants. Whenever possible each plant entry lists the caterpillars it is host to, butterflies it supplies nectar to, and the pollinators it attracts.
Tips for Attracting Pollinators
Go to this page to learn which native plants are most attractive to pollinators, plant-bee specialist relationships, and how to make your yard a pollinator magnet.
Grants to Help Fund a Native Garden
Go to this page for information about the Lawns to Legumes program and funding available from local watershed districts.

Photo Contest Winners
- To view Joan Brandwein’s and Leanne Phinney’s prize-winning photos, visit:
- Photo Contest Winners
Identification guides
- Minnesota Wildflowers is a comprehensive online guide to plants, both native and non-native.
- MinnesotaWildflowers.info
- How to Identify Native Bees (PDF)
Where to buy native plants
Videos
- Prior chapter meeting’s presentation:
- Rebecca McMackin:
- Brooklyn Bridge Park Lessons (so far!) in Constructed Ecology
- Video archive