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Over the last 150 years more than 99% of the midwestern tallgrass prairies were converted to homesteads, agricultural fields, cities, and highways. In recent years, however, interest in prairies has soared, since people realized the beauty of native grasses and wildflowers. Much of the charm and appeal of prairies comes from wildflowers, such as Oconomowoc Landscape Supply and Garden Center’s perennial experts suggest trying Wisconsin native perennials in your borders or perennial gardens. OLSGC carries a great variety of Wisconsin prairie and Wisconsin woodland native plants. These fascinating species will surprise you with their unique characteristics and beautiful subtleties. Whether you are considering the yucca-like desert appearance of the ‘Rattlesnake Master,’ the glorious color of the sky blue aster, or the directional alignment of the compass plant, Wisconsin natives will please your senses. Prairie gardens can be created in most landscapes. Prairie management includes removal of weeds and volunteer woody plants that compete with prairie plants for water, light, and space. Prairie plants grow best in full sun and in open spaces. When selecting a site, look for areas with the maximum sun exposure with minimal root competition from trees. Ash, basswood, and maple trees provide more competition for prairie plants because they have many surface roots which compete for water and nutrients. Prairie plants often are more compatible with bur or white oak. When sited properly, natives are low maintenance plants. They are natural hummingbird, butterfly, and bird attractants. Natives provide a natural water filtration system and are the perfect complement to a rain garden. Knowing your soil type and surface drainage is quite important when selecting plants for your prairie. Native prairie soils vary greatly in composition, from dry, gravelly, sandy soils which hold little moisture to silty or heavy clay soils that can hold excessive water. Standing water on a site or water that does not drain from a 1 foot deep hole within 24 hours are indicators of wet and poorly drained soils. Knowing the soil drainage of your site is really more critical than taking a soil test which is typically done in planting a garden. Mix your natives with your other perennials for a lovely, eco-friendly, and interesting garden. Oconomowoc Landscape Supply and Garden Center also carries a fine selection of Wisconsin native grasses. |
coneflowers, prairie phlox, false indigo, and orchids. The great beauty of prairie wildflowers and grasses has prompted many people to create prairie gardens in their landscapes. People find prairie gardens attractive, as do many types of birds, butterflies, and other native wildlife. Over the years, prairie gardens may take less time and expense to maintain than conventional lawns, since they reduce the use of pesticides, fertilizers, and mowing.