Native Plants
Q. Who is Mr. Smarty Plants?
A: There are those who suspect Wildflower Center volunteers are the culpable and capable culprits. Yet, others think staff members play some, albeit small, role. You can torture us with your plant questions, but we will never reveal the Green Guru's secret identity.
Did you know you can access the Native Plant Information Network with your web-enabled smartphone?
Ask Mr. Smarty Plants
Ask Mr. Smarty Plants is a free service provided by the staff and volunteers at the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center.
rate this answer
Sunday - November 16, 2014
From: Saxonburg , PA
Region: Northeast
Topic: Meadow Gardens, Planting, Propagation, Seeds and Seeding, Grasses or Grass-like, Herbs/Forbs
Title: Planting a meadow garden in Pennsylvania
Answered by: Guy Thompson
QUESTION:
I live in Saxonburg PA near Pittsburgh PA. I want to put a meadow garden in my back yard. We are building a home so there is no established yard yet just trees and weeds. Where do I start . What do I do? Any advice at all is appreciated. I can do wild flowers or different types of tall to small grasses. I just want it to be more natural than grass. ThanksANSWER:
We can offer you these detailed instructions as to how a meadow garden should be planned and planted. In order to choose plants well suited for your area check out the Lady Bird Johnson Native Plant website suggestions for plants that grow well in your area. The list includes flowering plants, grasses of different heights, etc. It is probably too late to plant most species before Spring, but some might be suitable for transplanting now. Check with your local plant nurserymen.
More Grasses or Grass-like Questions
How many Bamboo species are native to North Carolina? one
March 27, 2014 - I would like to know how many bamboo plants are native to North Carolina?
view the full question and answer
Unrecognized grass in Habiturf from Spicewood TX
February 07, 2013 - I purchased 2 bags of Habiturf from the Wildflower Center and planted it in late September. Now, early February, the predominant grass is not any of the 3 supposed components of the Habiturf, but look...
view the full question and answer
Controlling weeds in Buffalograss in Pflugerville, TX
September 26, 2009 - Hi Mr. Smarty Plants,
After a visit to the wildflower center a few years ago, my husband and I decided to do buffalo grass from sod in our new house. We love the way it looks, but I've been neglec...
view the full question and answer
Need native plant to stabilize 45 degree slope in Houston, TX.
June 06, 2012 - Can you recommend a native TX plant to be used to stabilize a 45 degree slope in the Houston area? Durability, maintenance and appearance should be considered. Thank You.
view the full question and answer
Hillside Erosion Control for Gainesville GA
August 07, 2013 - I have a steep bare hill and the runoff from it is heavy this year. I need help with a fast growing groundcover that will help control erosion and runoff. Planting on the hill is difficult because you...
view the full question and answer
| Support the Wildflower Center by Donating Online or Becoming a Member today. |