Blog
Learn about native species and ecological landscaping tips from a Minnesota Master Naturalist.
Native Groundcovers for Matrix Plantings
I’m highlighting my favorite groundcover plants that are native to central and northern Minnesota. While native populations may not be recorded in every single county, all these plant species are generally considered native throughout central and northern Minnesota. Many of them are also native to neighboring regions like northern Wisconsin and the Upper Peninsula of Michigan. All can be grown in home gardens with relative ease, though I’ve noted special considerations, such as species that are aggressive growers.
Bee Lawns and Native Landscaping
Bee lawns serve human functions first and foremost, so they have lower ecological value than a naturalistic landscape of native plants. Native bees are best served by a ground layer with varied height, diverse flowering plants, and patches of bare soil for burrowing. Bee lawns aren’t bad or unimportant. But bee lawns should be reserved for recreation areas and function best when planted alongside native, naturalistic landscaping.