Press release from the city of Oyster Bay:
May 5, 2021
Oyster Bay Councilor Michele Johnson announced that the city is providing an informative guide to residents looking to plant native species of plants in their home gardens. Native plants are traditionally found in a region where they are adapted to the local climate and soil conditions. This makes them robust, more resistant to insects and diseases, and generally easier to care for.
“With the spring season approaching, the concept of home gardening interests a lot of people, but those without green fingers may not be sure where to start. Get a quick explanation of local plant species that are easy to care for and have environmental benefits. Perhaps just what an aspiring gardener needs, ”said Councilor Johnson. “There are many species of plants that help improve air quality and at the same time attract butterflies, bees or birds.”
As gardeners continue to discover the benefits of native plants, local retailers have these and other species in stock. Some examples of native species gardeners should be considered: (For more information on each of these native plant species, please visit www.oysterbaytown.com/gardening)
- Blue False Indigo (Baptista australis): Produces blue-purple flowers that turn silver-gray in the fall. This species is mainly pollinated by queen bumblebees and also attracts butterflies.
- New England Aster (Symphotrichum novae-angliae): This aster has beautiful flower heads, attractive foliage and stems that provide a burst of color at the end of the growing season. Nectar and pollen attract butterflies, moths and bees.
- Butterfly weed (Asclepias tuberosa): Why do you intentionally plant something with the word “weeds” in its name? Well, if you’ve ever seen the beautiful monarch butterfly, its very existence depends on milkweed!
- Early Goldenrod (Solidago juncea): Golden yellow flowers that begin to bloom in early summer when they became an attraction for the first butterflies and bees of the season. Eastern goldfinches, sparrows and other birds are also attracted to this flower!
- Switchgrass (Panicum virgatum): This tall ornamental grass is widespread. The upright growth and clustering ability provide high quality cover, shelter, nesting sites and a source of food for wildlife.
- Wild Indigo (Baptisia tinctoria): Wild indigo is known to be deer-resistant, easy to care for, erosion-resistant, a home for butterflies and bees, and an excellent nitrogen fixer.
Native plantings can be made from seeds or young plants or plugs. Plants can be incorporated into an existing garden bed, or a new bed can be created by removing sward and loosening the soil. Choose plants based on location considerations for light, moisture, and soil. Vary plant structure, height, flower sequence, and flower color for seasonal appeal and butterfly habitat.
For more information about these native plant species, as well as more information about the garden, please visit www.oysterbaytown.com/gardening.
This press release was produced by the City of Oyster Bay. The views expressed here are the author’s own.
