Native Plants

BCMG Native Plant Program Support

Baltimore County Master Gardeners have maintained demonstration gardens for the public since 2010, developing new garden areas and evolving as the science of best practices evolves. This includes an increasing focus on native plants.

Within the demonstration gardens, the Pollinator Garden, Monarch Waystation, Bay-Wise Garden, Habitat Garden, and recently established Shade Garden, all either exclusively showcase native plants or include a majority of natives.

The Pollinator Garden provides visitors with an example of just how beautiful native plants can be in a garden setting. Information on the importance of native plants in supporting pollinators through food sources and safe havens is provided, along with specific plant and host information. Visitors can observe first hand the qualities of a wide variety of plants to consider for their environment (and enjoy observing the multitude of bees, butterflies and bugs!). And also reminds visitors that native plants can thrive without pesticides, herbicides, fertilizers and require less water.

The Monarch Waystation is a stunning collection of native plants that support monarchs as host plants and nectar plants. Densely planted and more informal, it is breathtaking from spring to fall and truly inspiring. Detailed plant information is provided.

In a similar vein, the Bay-Wise Garden offers examples of native trees, shrubs, and perennials that help create healthier gardens and landscapes that use sustainable practices in managing rainwater. Adjacent to this is the Habitat Garden with a beautiful, natural grouping of native shrubs and perennials that particularly support our smallest wildlife.

A newly established Shade Garden features native trees, shrubs, and perennials including areas devoted to showcasing native alternatives for use as groundcovers. Native ephemerals will be included in this area. Plant lists are under development along with signage explaining the benefits of planting under trees and using native plants.

Even our Orchard includes as many native fruits as possible such as pawpaws, clove currants, American persimmon, crabapple, chokeberry, and passionflower vine. Native perennials are planted throughout the orchard for all-important pollinator support.

Visit the Maryland Extension Home and Garden Information Center to learn more about Native Plants, https://extension.umd.edu/resources/yard-garden/native-plants/native-plant-gardening/

You can download their Native Plants guide Native Plants of Maryland: What, When and Where

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