United States Department of Agriculture
Natural Resources Conservation Service
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Native Landscaping

... builds soil quality and enhances the landscape

What is Native Landscaping?

Native landscaping is a simple way to reincorporate native grasses, flowers, shrubs and trees into the landscape. Native forbs, or flowers, bloom throughout the season and attract butterflies, hummingbirds, and other pollinator species. Hardy native grasses and shrubs also provide rich colors for fall and winter appeal.

Once established, native plants are easy to maintain because they are adapted to Montana temperatures, rainfall patterns, and soil conditions. They also resist local pests and disease. Native plants reduce soil erosion, build soil structure, and absorb rainfall.


Summer photo of urban home with native landscaping.
Urban landscape with native plants in summer foliage: staghorn sumac, horizontal and common juniper, western mountain ash, aspen, skunkbush sumac, rose, shrubby cinquefoil, and ponderosa pine.

Fall photo of native grasses used as accent border.
Native accent grasses in fall color. Try to devote at least 30 percent of open space to native landscaping.

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Last Modified: 07/05/2007