Native plants are beautiful and are a part of the natural heritage of the area we live in.

      They need little or no supplemental water and no added fertilizer.

      They attract and support beneficial insects.  When insect balance is restored, there is no need for pesticides.

      They support butterflies and hummingbirds and other native and migrating birds.

       Native plant communities are interconnected underground, through mycorrhizas, sharing moisture and nutrition and suppressing weeds.

      Dig the hole no deeper than the root ball and do not fertilize or amend the soil.

      After planting, add at least 2 or 3 inches of mulch to the area around the plants to improve the soil and suppress weeds. The mulch should be bark or chipped wood, not manure or nitrogen fortified products.

      Water well at planting.  The first summer, water once a week to once a month - you can tell if water is needed by checking the soil a couple of inches below the mulch.  After the first year, extra water may be given in the Spring or Fall if needed. Regular summer watering of established natives should be avoided unless there is obvious drought stress.

      Don’t worry that a plant is not actively growing in summer.  If it has good color and is healthy, it will be fine. Most plants put on most of their growth in the spring and fall when moisture and warmth are available.

     Use easy to grow, reliable plants for the basic structure of the garden, adding perennials and others which may require more maintenance for added interest and color.

      Most native perennials look best if they are pruned when they’re done flowering, usually by at least 1/3, or for a neat appearance.  Zauschneria can be cut back nearly to the ground.

     Thirstier plants such as Ribes (currents and gooseberries), Spicebush, Willow and Carpenteria should be grouped separately  and given more water.

    Do an on site consultation

     Create a custom design which will meet your needs and thrive on your site

     Completely install your project of any size.

    (Good Earth may also use non-natives which are appropriate for your climate and site.)