Native Plant Care Tips for Pennsylvania Homeowners

Are you a homeowner in Pennsylvania looking to enhance the beauty and sustainability of your garden? Incorporating native plants into your landscaping not only adds a touch of natural beauty but also helps support local ecosystems and wildlife. Mountain View Farm Nursery, the first Native Plant Nursery in Northern Dauphin County, has some expert tips on how to care for native plants in your home garden.

Rudbeckia spp. - Black-eyed Susan

1. Choose the Right Plant for the Right Place: Before purchasing any native plants, make sure to research and select ones that are well-suited to the specific conditions in your garden, such as sunlight, soil type, and moisture levels. This will help ensure the plants thrive and require less maintenance in the long run.

2. Planting: When planting native plants, be sure to dig a hole that is twice as wide as the root ball but no deeper. Gently remove the plant from its container and loosen the roots before placing it in the hole. Backfill with soil, water thoroughly, and add a layer of mulch to help retain moisture.

3. Watering: While native plants are generally more resilient to local climate conditions, they still require regular watering, especially during the first growing season. Water deeply and infrequently to encourage deep root growth. Avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot.

4. Maintenance: Native plants typically require less maintenance than non-native species, but regular care is still important. Remove any weeds that may compete for resources, deadhead flowers to promote new growth, and prune as needed to maintain shape and health.

5. Fertilizing: Most native plants do not require fertilizers, as they have adapted to local soil conditions. In fact, fertilizing can be detrimental to native plants and may encourage the growth of invasive species. If necessary, use organic and low-nitrogen fertilizers sparingly.

6. Pest and Disease Control: Monitor your native plants regularly for any signs of pests or diseases. In most cases, native plants have built-in defenses against local pests and diseases, making them more resilient. If intervention is needed, opt for natural and environmentally friendly control methods. By following these native plant care tips, you can create a sustainable and vibrant garden that supports local biodiversity and thrives in Pennsylvania's unique climate. Whether you are a homeowner, renter, landscaping company, or government agency, incorporating native plants from Mountain View Farm Nursery into your landscaping projects will not only beautify your space but also contribute to the restoration of natural ecosystems. Start your journey towards a greener and more sustainable future today!