I am looking for a list of some NATIVE plants, shrubs and flowers for my area to attract more wildlife.?

Question

I am looking for a list of some NATIVE plants, shrubs and flowers for my area to attract more wildlife. I live in Stoutsville, OH which is near Columbus. I am looking for something not too costly but native to Ohio. Any one have any idea. Maybe a berry shrub, a flower for nectar etc.

Answer 1

I do the same thing here in WA: use natives whenever possible. They are perfectly adapted to the local climate and wildlife, require almost no care once established, and can be very striking.

You may have trouble finding some native species, for true native species and subspecies are seldom carried by garden centers (they will offer something that is "just the same" or "better" than the natives, so if you really want natives be careful). Check with your local ag extension office, college, or Master Gardeners to see where plants such as these may be purchased.

Here are some links which might help you:

Ohio State:
http://ohioline.osu.edu/b865/index.html
http://webgarden.osu.edu/native.html
http://www.ag.ohio-state.edu/~news/story.php?id=1729
http://hcs.osu.edu/sense/sense1.html

Ohio Native Plant Society:
http://dir.gardenweb.com/directory/onps1/
http://groups.msn.com/NativePlantSocietyofNortheastOhio/_homepage

Other Ohio native plant resources:
http://www.infography.com/content/046635033118.html

Using native plants in the garden:
http://ourohio.org/mag/html/mag_2006/mag_jja_06_hg.php

Why use native plants?
http://www.gcbl.org/forum/why-use-native-plants

Nature Conservancy Ohio invasive plants (avoid these):
http://www.nature.org/wherewework/northamerica/states/ohio/science/art6279.html

If you are interested in attracting and supporting wildlife, take a look at OSU's Factsheet on "Backyard Enhancement for Wildlife" :
http://ohioline.osu.edu/w-fact/0010.html

Good luck!

Answer 2

The easiest way to find plants good for your area is to visit your local garden center. Garden centers only carry plants that can be grown in that area. Besides, you can look at all the colors and textures and decide for yourself. Most people go for a mix of annuals (have to replace each year) and perennials (return every year) to create a lush and colorful bed.

Answer 3

I am from columbus...if you have time, go to oakland nursery in columbus...have alot of native plants from ohio, plus good people there with knowledge and experience...

Answer 4

I have a link for Missouri's grow native program. There may be something similar for Ohio as well.

http://www.grownative.org/

Good luck!