New England Native Plants

What is a Native Plant? Native plants (also called indigenous plants) are plants that have evolved over thousands of years to adapt to the geography, hydrology, and climate of a particular region. Native plants also co-evolved with local wildlife and pollinators and depend upon each other for survival. 

Why Use Native Plants? Because native plants are adapted to local conditions, they provide a beautiful, hardy, drought resistant, low maintenance landscape while benefiting the environment. Once established, they can save time and money by eliminating the need for fertilizers, water, and lawn maintenance equipment. 

Best Times to Plant: Planting is largely a late fall or early spring activity occurring at the beginning or end of the growing season. The growing season for Plymouth County starts after the last frost, typically in May, and ends on the first frost date of fall, typically in October. Planting in hot, dry summer conditions may require consistent watering. 

When selecting plants, keep in mind the amount of light and water the location gets as well as the type of soil. A sunny, dry location with sandy soil will need different plants from a shady, wet one with acid soil. Please refer to the plant lists provided below.

IMPORTANT - PLEASE READ

Wildlife and Pollinators: It is NORMAL to see insects and caterpillars on your native plants. Native plants are hosts for many beautiful, rare and endangered moths, butterflies, and bees. If insects are not eating or visiting your plants, your garden is not supporting the local ecology. All insects (including ants, flies, wasps, etc.) contribute to pollination which allows fruits to develop. Birds, mammals, and even ants are vital to plant pollination and seed distribution.

Please keep in mind that your native plants provide natural food for wildlife such as fruits, seeds, nuts, and nectar. For instance, the striking red berries of the Winterberry shrub (Ilex verticulata) are a critical food source for birds during winter when other foods are scarce. Always avoid using pesticides and herbicides, as these products kill pollinators and birds, and contaminate our water.

Remember that if your land is on or near wetlands, you will need prior approval of the Conservation Commission to plant - even when you choose New England native species. As always, feel free to reach out to the Conservation Department with questions and concerns. We are here to help!

For a list of Retail and Wholesale Native Plant Nurseries, visit www.GrowNativeMass.org