Where to Start
Right Plant, Right Place: Observe where you’re planting. When it rains does the water collect in certain places or drain right away? Where does the sun shine in summer vs winter? Is your soil rocky? Sandy? Clay? Are the winds harsh? Knowing your space will guide you in choosing the right plant for the right place. Already overwhelmed? We offer consulting services.
Time your plantings with Nature: Most native seeds and seedlings should be directly sown in fall and winter to take advantage of our rainy season. That way, they will have time to establish a strong root system which sets them up to be more resilient to our hot, dry summers.
Switch to a drip irrigation system: Drip irrigation uses way less water than an above ground sprinkler system saving you money! It allows you to direct the flow of water exactly where you want it which helps suppress weeds, promotes healthier plants by channeling water to the roots rather than plant surfaces, and can be automated to save you time. Not to mention, we’re in a drought! Being mindful of our resources will save us a lot of headache in the future. Already have irrigation? Convert your current sprinkler system.
Use mulch- In nature, there is rarely bare earth. Mimic what happens around plants in the wild. For most of our local plants, a rock mulch is best. For plants that need a bit more moisture, an organic mulch can help.
For more detailed information about the plants, check out what we grow.
More Resources
Heritage Garden Plant Selection Guide by The Columbia Basin Chapter of the Washington Native Plant Society and Benton Conservation District
Rainwater Harvesting for Drylands and Beyond by Brad Lancaster
Sagebrush Country: A Wildflower Sanctuary by Ronald J. Taylor
Braiding Sweetgrass by Robin Wall Kimmerer
Beyond the War on Invasive Species by Tao Orion
Wildflowers of the Pacific Northwest by Mark Turner and Phyllis Gustafson
Flora of the Pacific Northwest by Hitchcock and Cronquist
