How do native plants protect the Chesapeake Bay?

Deep-rooted natives (10-15 feet) absorb far more water and nutrients than turf, preventing runoff pollution. Rain gardens with natives filter stormwater before it reaches the Bay. Native plants prevent erosion—critical for Bay health.

Where can I find Maryland native plants?

Sources include Chesapeake Native Nursery, Adkins Arboretum, Izel Native Plants, Maryland Native Plant Society sales, and county conservation district programs.

Can I get financial incentives for native gardens?

Yes! Maryland offers various programs including rain garden rebates, Bay-Wise certification benefits, and cost-share programs for conservation landscaping. Check with local soil conservation districts.

Will natives help with deer problems?

Choose more deer-resistant natives like ferns, grasses, joe pye weed, and aromatic plants. Fence high-value areas or accept some browsing. Many natives recover well.

Can I replace my lawn with natives?

Absolutely! Native meadows and groundcovers require minimal mowing, no fertilizer, and support Bay health by preventing runoff. Many Maryland counties encourage native lawns.

Why is black-eyed Susan the state flower?

Black-eyed Susan (Rudbeckia hirta) became Maryland's state flower in 1918, representing the state's native wildflower heritage. It's easy to grow, supports pollinators, and displays Maryland's official colors—gold and black.

Gardenly

Native Plant Garden Design in Maryland - Chesapeake Bay Watershed Landscapes

Native plant gardens thrive in Maryland's diverse ecosystems, from Atlantic beaches to Appalachian mountains. This watershed-friendly approach celebrates indigenous plants adapted to Maryland's Mid-Atlantic climate, supporting local wildlife and protecting the Chesapeake Bay. Native gardens showcase Maryland's natural beauty while requiring minimal maintenance, filtering stormwater, and preserving the state's ecological heritage.

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Why Choose This Style for Maryland?

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Four distinct seasons with mild temperatures

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Adequate rainfall supporting diverse communities

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Long growing season

Climate Adaptation for Maryland

Maryland native gardens peak in spring with dogwoods and woodland wildflowers, followed by summer displays of joe pye weed and coneflowers. Fall brings asters and spectacular tree color. Plant in spring or fall. Most natives require minimal water after establishment.

Key Challenges

Variable weather with temperature fluctuations and storms
Heavy clay soils in many areas
Deer browsing pressure
Coastal areas with salt spray

Regional Advantages

Four distinct seasons with mild temperatures
Adequate rainfall supporting diverse communities
Long growing season
Rich botanical diversity

Key Design Principles

Protect the Chesapeake Bay

Use rain gardens and native plantings to filter stormwater before it reaches the Bay. Deep-rooted natives prevent erosion and nutrient runoff—critical for Bay health.

Create Layered Habitats

Mimic Maryland forests with canopy trees, understory, shrubs, and groundcovers. Support diverse wildlife in the Chesapeake watershed.

Support Pollinators

Include milkweeds for monarchs, native wildflowers for bees, continuous bloom. Maryland is on the Atlantic flyway migration route.

Manage Stormwater

Rain gardens with native plants capture and filter runoff. Critical for reducing Chesapeake Bay pollution and flooding.

Work with Regional Variation

Coastal plants differ from mountain species. Choose natives appropriate to your specific Maryland location.

Embrace Four Seasons

Design for year-round interest with spring blooms, summer flowers, fall color, and winter structure.

Recommended Plants for Maryland

These plants are specifically selected to thrive in your region's climate and complement this garden style perfectly.

Black-Eyed Susan

Rudbeckia hirta

Maryland state flower with cheerful golden blooms

Sun: Full sun

Water: Low to moderate

Blooms: June through September

Joe Pye Weed

Eutrochium purpureum

Tall native with mauve flowers, butterfly magnet

Sun: Full sun to partial shade

Water: Moderate to high

Blooms: July through September

Purple Coneflower

Echinacea purpurea

Native wildflower essential for pollinators

Sun: Full sun to partial shade

Water: Low

Blooms: June through September

Swamp Milkweed

Asclepias incarnata

Native milkweed with pink flowers, critical for monarchs

Sun: Full sun

Water: Moderate to high

Blooms: June through August

Flowering Dogwood

Cornus florida

Native understory tree with white spring flowers

Sun: Partial shade to full sun

Water: Moderate

Blooms: April through May

Switchgrass

Panicum virgatum

Native warm-season grass with airy seed heads

Sun: Full sun

Water: Low to moderate

Blooms: July through September

Cardinal Flower

Lobelia cardinalis

Brilliant red native for moist areas, hummingbird favorite

Sun: Partial shade to full sun

Water: Moderate to high

Blooms: July through September

Red Chokeberry

Aronia arbutifolia

Native shrub with white flowers, red fall berries

Sun: Full sun to partial shade

Water: Moderate

Blooms: April through May

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Essential Design Features

Bay-Friendly Hardscaping

•Permeable paving
•Local stone
•Rain garden features
•Natural pathways
•Bioswales

Wildlife Features

•Native plant borders
•Rain gardens
•Water features
•Brush piles
•Seed heads for birds
•Host plants for butterflies

Regional Materials

•Local stone
•Hardwood mulch
•Natural wood
•Oyster shells (coastal)
•Bay-friendly materials

Stormwater Management

•Rain gardens
•Bioswales
•Native meadows
•Deep-rooted plantings
•Infiltration areas
•Buffer plantings

Seasonal Maintenance Guide

Spring

Cut back perennials (April)
Plant natives in April or May
Hand-pull invasive species
Apply compost if desired
Enjoy spring blooms
Divide overcrowded plants

Summer

Water new plants weekly first season
Established natives need no water
Remove invasive plants
Enjoy peak bloom
Observe pollinators
Minimal maintenance

Fall

Best season for planting (September-October)
Scatter native seeds
Leave stems standing
Minimal cleanup
Collect seeds
Enjoy fall colors

Winter

Observe birds on seed heads
Plan additions
Attend native plant events
Enjoy winter structure
Minimal maintenance
Prepare for spring

Investment Guide

Estimated costs for creating your native plant garden in Maryland

small Garden

Native Plants
$350 - $800
20-30 natives for 200-400 sq ft
Soil Preparation
$150 - $350
Minimal amendment
Hardscaping
$300 - $700
Simple paths
Wildlife Features
$100 - $250
Basic features
Total
$900 - $2,100
Starter Maryland native garden

medium Garden

Native Plants
$950 - $2,200
50-70 natives for 600-800 sq ft
Soil Preparation
$350 - $750
Site preparation
Hardscaping
$1,200 - $2,800
Pathways and features
Wildlife Features
$600 - $1,400
Rain garden, habitat
Irrigation
$400 - $800
Establishment system
Total
$3,500 - $7,950
Established native ecosystem

large Garden

Native Plants
$2,400 - $5,500
100+ natives for 1,200+ sq ft
Soil Preparation
$750 - $1,500
Professional preparation
Hardscaping
$3,500 - $8,000
Extensive features
Wildlife Features
$2,000 - $4,500
Large rain garden, pond
Irrigation
$1,000 - $2,000
Comprehensive system
Total
$9,650 - $21,500
Comprehensive Maryland native landscape

Frequently Asked Questions

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