Native plants are uniquely adapted to our local climate and soils. They’re naturally hardy, often more resistant to pests and diseases, and their deep, wide-spreading root systems help soak up rainwater, reduce runoff, and prevent erosion.
Once established, native plants need little watering or fertilizing. This not only lowers maintenance costs compared to traditional turf grass lawns but also helps protect water quality, since excess fertilizer can contribute to algae blooms in our lakes.
Native plants provide food and habitat for pollinators, birds, and other wildlife, helping support a healthy ecosystem.
Our department partners with Wild Ones Madison to host Native Garden Learning Hub events throughout the year. These events are dedicated to helping our community cultivate diverse landscapes that increase habitat, foster biodiversity, and enhance climate resilience. The Hub unites resources, community experts, and volunteers to offer targeted learning through engaging community sessions, presentations, panel discussions, hands-on workshops, one-on-one guidance, and much more!
Guides, videos, and tools to help anyone design, plant, and care for a native garden.
Successful native gardens begin with strong site preparation. These materials explain soil basics, sod removal, and other techniques to establish a planting area.
Thoughtful design and plant selection create beautiful, resilient gardens. This section offers templates, design tools, and options for a variety of landscapes.
Overview:
Native Gardening Webinar – Design Considerations (Video - YouTube)
Designs and Plant Collections:
Designs tools:
Native plant nurseries and sales in Dane County:
Free Native Plants for School and Community Projects Program
Get Started
Take a Deeper Dive
Some gardens can be designed purposefully to help catch and soak up rainwater. Learn more about these special gardens to see if they are the right fit.
Native gardens need some management to thrive.
For readers seeking more in-depth knowledge, these books provide technical guidance and inspiration on prairie and native plant gardening.
