This landscaping plant guide is for those of you that would like to beautify your outdoor spaces with the most environmentally friendly options. Choosing native species is the first suggestion.Species that are native to the climate in which you live will require less water and less maintenance. Many states have native plant societies. They are happy to provide a list of species native to the area for a number of reasons.
One reason is simply to ensure the species is preserved. Many species have become endangered or extinct as the years have gone by due to farming, logging and other activities.
Another reason is to reduce water usage. Species that grow naturally in an area are resistant to droughts and accustomed to thriving on the amount of water provided by rain. By planting more native species and less grass, we can consume less freshwater and cut down on the carbon emissions created when we mow the grass.
Depending on where you live, you may need a list of deer resistant plants. While no species will be completely ignored by our deer friends, some are less tasty to them than others. Aromatic shrubs, herbs and flowers are more deer resistant plants. The animals simply don’t like the strong odor. Planting the strong-smelling species at the edges of your garden may help keep the deer away from your other plants.
When planting trees or saplings in the spring, it is a good idea to protect them with cages. Deer will eat practically anything in the spring. They have had to survive on famine rations all winter. Your young trees are not safe from them.
In addition to strong smelling plants, some species are bitter, have hairy leaves or prickly thorns that naturally protect them from animals. Below is a landscaping plant guide for species that most animals will shy away from, either because of the scent, the taste or the thorns.
• Red buckeye—bitter taste
• Flame acanthus—strong smell
• Black-eyed Susan and Cow-Pen daisy—strong odors
• Prickly poppies—small thorns on leaves
• Cacti and Aloe—thorns
• Chicory—bitter taste
Most of the plants listed above are hardy. They will survive in practically any climate. If they happen to be native to your area, you can use them with confidence.
