GARDENING WITH NATURE
Article by Sigrie KendrickWhy Native Plants?
Our Okanagan Valley features a unique ecosystem, shaped by hot, dry summers and cold winters. This distinctive climate has resulted in a diverse array of native plants that are not only beautiful but also incredibly resilient. Native plants have evolved over thousands of years to flourish in the Okanagan’s specific conditions. This means they require less water, fertilizer, and overall maintenance than many non-native species. By incorporating these plants into your garden, you’re not only creating a low-maintenance space but also supporting local ecosystems and wildlife. As climate change continues to impact our region, the resilience of native plants becomes increasingly valuable. Gardening with native Okanagan plants offers a unique opportunity to connect with the natural heritage of our region. It’s a chance to create outdoor spaces that are not only visually stunning but also ecologically responsible. By embracing native Okanagan plants in our gardens, we’re not just creating beautiful spaces, we’re actively participating in conservation efforts. These plants help preserve biodiversity, reduce water consumption, and create habitat for local insects and wildlife.
Artemisia tridentata–
Big Sagebrush
Pseudoroegneria spicata–
Bluebunch Wheatgrass
Balsamorhiza sagittata–
Arrowleaf Balsamroot
Minimal Water Needs
Water conservation is a crucial consideration in the Okanagan and native plants are the perfect solution. Species like Artemisia tridentata (Big Sagebrush), Pseudoroegneria spicata (Bluebunch Wheatgrass) and Balsamorhiza sagittata (Arrowleaf Balsamroot) have developed deep root systems and other adaptations to thrive with minimal water. These plants are just a few examples of those native perennials which can help reduce your water usage while still maintaining an attractive landscape.
Ecosystem Suppport
By planting native plants, you’re essentially rolling out the welcome mat for local wildlife. The bright purple tubular flowers of the Penstemon fruticosis (Shrubby Penstemon) will supply early nectar for pollinators along with the Mahonia aquifolium (Oregon Grape). Following in the season will be the lilac-coloured blooms of both Aster conspicuus (Showy aster) and Monarda fistulosa (Bergamont). In the fall, Heterotheca villosa (Golden Aster) and Aster ericoides (Tufted Prairie Aster) provide late-season nectar for pollinators. Native plants offer a wide range of textures and forms to add interest to your garden. The groundcover Arctostaphylos uva-ursi (Kinnikinnick) will serve as a living mulch while the tall Amelanchier alnifolia (Saskatoon) adds vertical interest.
Linum perenne–Blue Flax and Gaillardia aristata– Brown-Eyed Susan
Ipomopsis aggregata–
Scarlet gilia
Geum triflorum–
Prairie Smoke
Visually Stunning
Contrary to the misconception that native plants lack visual appeal, the Okanagan boasts a wide variety of fantastic flowering species. For instance, in our update of the Native Plant Garden, we will be incorporating a planting of Linum perenne (Blue Flax) and Gaillardia aristata (Brown-Eyed Susan) for a stunning contrast of blue and yellow blooms. Also included in the new planting will be my go-to shade of red with a planting of Ipomopsis aggregata (Scarlet gilia). And, I am beyond excited to include one of my favourite natives, Geum triflorum (Prairie Smoke), the reddish-pink blooms of which are followed by fascinating, fluffy seed heads which resemble puffs of smoke.
Native Plant Tips
- Start small by incorporating a few native species into your existing garden. As you become more comfortable, you can gradually increase the proportion of native plants. Local nurseries such as Wild Bloom in Kelowna and XEN in West Kelowna are excellent resources for both plants and advice about native plants.
- Remember, even native plants need some care, especially when first establishing. Supplement them with regular water during the first growing season to help them develop strong root systems. After that, most species will require minimal attention, perfect for those of you who are already time-stressed.
- Look for native plants thriving naturally around you when you walk or hike in the forest and meadows and get to know them, including their Latin names. You can find some in our extensive plant database, but another good resource for this region is Plants of Southern Interior B.C. by R. Parish, Coupe and Lloyd.
- Plant for succession throughout the seasons so there’s always something to feed local pollinators and wildlife.
- Do not dig up plants in the wild to transplant into your garden. Instead, source them at nurseries specializing in native plants, or harvest a few seeds once the flowers are spent. It can be tricky to propagate native plants, so do your research first and then be patient.
- If you cannot find a specific plant, an alternative is to look for cousin in local nurseries. Once you know the Latin name, you know the family to look for.
- Finally, don’t limit yourself to annuals or perennials. Consider planting native shrubs and trees as well.
Check our Plant Database for more information on the plants mentioned above.
Sigrie Kendrick is a master gardener and executive-director of the non-profit Okanagan Xeriscape Association.
