Native plants are a vital part of creating sustainable landscapes in the Hudson Valley. These plants provide food and habitat for local wildlife, support biodiversity, and help maintain the region’s unique ecosystem. When shopping for plants, it’s essential to ask the first question: Is it native? “If the answer is no,” says John Messerschmidt, owner of Hudson Valley Native Landscaping in High Falls, “it does nothing to contribute to the wildlife around you.”

Perennials and Shrubs

Native perennials and shrubs are a great option for gardeners looking to create sustainable landscapes. These plants are well-suited to the local climate and ecosystem, providing food and habitat for local wildlife. Some popular native perennials include black-eyed susans, coneflowers, and butterfly milkweed. These plants are also low-maintenance and can thrive in a variety of conditions.

• Black-eyed susans (Rudbeckia hirta) are a popular native perennial that attracts pollinators and provides a source of nectar for butterflies and bees.
• Coneflowers (Echinacea spp.) are a native perennial that provides a source of nectar for pollinators and supports biodiversity.
• Butterfly milkweed (Asclepias tuberosa) is a native perennial that provides a source of nectar for butterflies and supports biodiversity.

Edible and Medicinal Plants

Native edible and medicinal plants are a great option for gardeners looking to create sustainable landscapes that support local food systems. These plants provide a source of fresh produce and can be used to create a variety of dishes. Some popular native edible plants include sassafras, goldenrod, and dandelion. These plants are also low-maintenance and can thrive in a variety of conditions.

• Sassafras (Sassafras albidum) is a native edible plant that provides a source of roots, bark, and leaves that can be used to create a variety of dishes.
• Goldenrod (Solidago spp.) is a native edible plant that provides a source of flowers that can be used to create a variety of dishes.
• Dandelion (Taraxacum officinale) is a native edible plant that provides a source of leaves, roots, and flowers that can be used to create a variety of dishes.

Native Nurseries and Garden Centers

The Hudson Valley is home to a variety of native nurseries and garden centers that specialize in offering plants that are well-suited to the local climate and ecosystem. Some popular options include:

Services Offered

Many of the native nurseries and garden centers in the Hudson Valley offer a variety of services to help gardeners create sustainable landscapes.