Plants that can Thrive in an Oklahoma or Texas Rain Garden - Wild Bergamot (Monarda fistulosa) - Texomaland & North Texas

Add a Rain Garden for Drainage Control & Landscaping Beauty – Texomaland & North Texas

Rain Garden Plants That Thrive
in Texas & Oklahoma

Landscape Grading & Drainage Services from Texoma Excavation & Construction

Rain Garden Plants That Thrive
in Texas & Oklahoma

Landscape Grading & Drainage Services from Texoma Excavation & Construction

Selecting rain garden plants that thrive in the climate zone you live in is an important consideration. Other questions, like: How do you decide what plants or flowers to use in a rain garden? How do you decide what plant heights to plan for? How would you arrange a rain garden with tall plant shrubs and shorter flowering plants? Is it possible for all the plants to be perennials?

To make these decisions about what plants or flowers to use in your rain garden, you need to consider several factors, such as:

The amount of sunlight and shade that the rain garden receives. Different plants have different preferences for sun exposure, so you should choose plants that match the light conditions of your site. For example, if your rain garden gets a lot of sunlight, you can use coneflowers, black-eyed susan’s, and beebalm [4]. If your rain garden is mostly shady, you can use ferns, asters, and columbines [3].
The moisture level and soil type of the rain garden. Rain gardens are divided into three zones based on how wet they are: the edge, the slope, and the base. The edge is the driest zone, where plants that can tolerate occasional drought should be planted.

The slope is the intermediate zone, where plants that can handle both wet and dry conditions should be planted. The base is the wettest zone, where plants that can thrive in standing water or saturated soil should be planted. You should also test the soil of your rain garden to determine its pH, texture, and nutrient level, and choose plants that are adapted to those characteristics. For example, if your rain garden has sandy soil, you can use switchgrass, butterfly weed, and coreopsis. If your rain garden has clay soil, you can use cardinal flower, ironweed, and joe-pye weed [2].

The size and shape of the rain garden. The size and shape of your rain garden will determine how many plants you need and how to arrange them. You should measure the area of your rain garden and calculate how many plants you can fit based on their mature size and spacing requirements. You should also consider the aesthetics and functionality of your rain garden, and choose plants that create visual interest, attract wildlife, and filter pollutants. For example, you can use taller plants in the center or the back of your rain garden to create a focal point and use shorter plants in the front or the sides to create a border. You can also use plants with different colors, textures, and blooming times to create contrast and variety throughout the seasons.

To help you plan and design your rain garden, you can use the following resources:

How to Build a Rain Garden: Plants & Designs – The Old Farmer’s Almanac: This article provides two sample designs and plant lists for a sunny and a shady rain garden, as well as tips on how to build and maintain a rain garden.
Rain Garden Plant Lists – Southeast Wisconsin Rain Garden Resources: This website provides various plant lists for different types of rain gardens, such as rain gardens for birds and butterflies, shady rain gardens, and native plant sources.

What are some recommended plants that can thrive in a rain garden?

TEXAS RAIN GARDEN PLANTS

Click image to enlarge.

For northeast Texas, Costa Farms recommends planting apples, apricots, figs, pears, plum, peaches, and nectarines [2]. According to a draft of the Texas Rain Garden Plant List by Texas A&M University, some plants that are commonly recommended for Texas landscapes and will grow in a rain garden include:

Ajuga (Ajuga reptans)
Ajuga (Ajuga reptans), also known as Bugleweed or Carpet Bugle, is a versatile ground cover plant suitable for raingardens in northeast Texas and southeast Oklahoma. Its dense, mat-forming growth helps control erosion and suppress weeds, making it ideal for stabilizing soil in raingardens. Ajuga thrives in

partial shade to full shade and moist, well-drained soils, adding aesthetic appeal with its vibrant blue to purple flowers in late spring^[1].

Suitability for Raingardens: Erosion Control: Ajuga’s dense growth habit helps stabilize soil and prevent erosion; Weed Suppression: Forms a thick mat that effectively suppresses weeds; Aesthetic Appeal: Produces attractive blue to purple flowers in late spring, enhancing the visual appeal of enhancing the visual appeal of raingardens[1].
Dimensions: Height: Typically grows 4-9 inches tall; Spread: Can spread up to 12-18 inches or more, forming a dense ground cover^[5][2].
Ideal Growing Conditions: Soil: Prefers moist, well-drained soil but can tolerate a range of soil types; Light: Thrives in partial shade to full shade, though it can tolerate some sun if kept moist; Water: Requires moderate watering, especially during dry periods^[6].
Growing Regions in the U.S.: Hardiness Zones: Ajuga is hardy in USDA zones 3 through 10, making it suitable for a wide range of climates across the U.S., including northeast Texas and southeast Oklahoma^[2].
Best Use in Raingardens: Ground Cover: Ideal for covering large areas and preventing weed growth; Erosion Control: Effective for stabilizing soil on slopes and in areas prone to erosion; Aesthetic Appeal: Adds visual interest with its colorful flowers and evergreen foliage^[1].

Photo Credit:H. Zell, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Resources:
1. [Gardening Step by Step](https://gardeningstepbystep.com/ajuga-reptans/)
2. [Missouri Botanical
3. [New Life On A Homestead](https://www.newlifeonahomestead.com/medicinal-weed-ajuga-bugleweed/)
4. Wikipedia](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ajuga_reptans)
5. [Illinois Wildflowers](http://illinoiswildflowers.info/weeds/plants/carpet_bugle.htm) Garden](https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=b200)
6 [Gardeners HQ](https://www.gardenershq.com/Ajuga-reptans.php)

Butterfly Weed (Asclepias tuberosa):
Butterfly weed is a bushy perennial that typically grows 3-4 feet tall and 2-3 feet wide[2]. Some cultivars may grow taller or shorter, depending on the growing conditions[1][2]. It is native to eastern and southwestern North America and can be found in most of the eastern and central U.S., as well as some parts of the

western U.S.[1][3]. It grows in open prairies, meadows, and other moist habitats. Butterfly weed prefers moist, medium to wet clay soil that does not dry out. It can tolerate some shade, but full sun is best for optimal flowering and growth. It is hardy in USDA zones 3-8. The best growing conditions for butterfly weed are similar to its native habitat: a wetland environment with full sun and moist soil[1][2]. It can also be grown in average garden soil if it is kept moist and mulched. It is a low maintenance plant that does not need much fertilizer or pruning. Butterfly weed blooms in early to mid-summer, producing fragrant, orange to yellow-orange flowers in rounded clusters[1][2]. The flowers attract butterflies, bees, and other pollinators with their nectar. The flowers are followed by green pods that split open to release brown seeds with silky hairs.

Photo Credit: SterlingHerron, CC0, via Wikimedia Commons

Resources:
1. Asclepias tuberosa (Butterfly Weed), Gardenia. Online resource.
2. Asclepias tuberosa, Wikipedia. Online resource.
3. Butterfly Weed 101 – Ultimate Grow & Care Guide!, GrowIt BuildIT. Online resource.

Creeping Junipers (Juniperus horizontalis)
Creeping Junipers (Juniperus horizontalis) are ideal for rainscaping and raingardens in northeast Texas and southeast Oklahoma due to their excellent erosion control and drought tolerance. These low-maintenance plants thrive in full sun and well-drained soils, making them perfect for stabilizing slopes and . . .

^{Read more

covering large areas. Their dense, mat-forming growth habit helps prevent weed growth, while their year-round foliage adds aesthetic appeal to any landscape. Creeping Junipers (Juniperus horizontalis) can grow in northeast Texas and southeast Oklahoma, as they are hardy in USDA zones 3 through 9^[6]. This region falls within these zones, making it a suitable choice for your area.
Suitability for Raingardens: Erosion Control: Creeping Junipers have extensive root systems that help stabilize soil, making them ideal for slopes and areas prone to erosion^[1]; Drought Tolerance: They are highly drought-tolerant once established, which reduces the need for frequent watering; Low Maintenance: These plants require minimal care and can thrive in poor soil conditions^[2].

Dimensions: Height: Typically grows to about 6-18 inches tall; Spread: Can spread widely, up to 5-10 feet, depending on the variety and conditions^[4].

Ideal Growing Conditions: Soil: Prefers well-drained soil and can tolerate sandy or rocky soils; Light: Thrives in full sun, requiring at least six hours of direct sunlight each day; Water: While drought-tolerant, it performs best with occasional watering during prolonged dry periods^[2].

Growing Regions in the U.S.: Hardiness Zones: Creeping Junipers are hardy in USDA zones 3 through 9, covering a wide range of climates across the United States^[5].

Best Use in Raingardens: Ground Cover: Their dense, mat-forming growth habit makes them excellent for covering large areas and suppressing weeds^[2]; Erosion Control: Ideal for planting on slopes or areas with loose soil to prevent erosion^[1]; Aesthetic Appeal**: The foliage provides year-round color, often turning a purplish hue in winter, adding visual interest to raingardens^[2].
Photo Credit:W.Baumgartner, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Resources:

1. [Outdoor Guide](https://www.outdoorguide.com/1706298/why-grow-creeping-juniper-sloped-yard/)

2. (https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/vinca-minor/)” target=”_blank” rel=”noopener”>[The Spruce](https://www.thespruce.com/creeping-juniper-plant-profile-5070516)

3. [Tree Vitalize](https://treevitalize.com/types-of-juniper-trees-identification/)

4. [North Carolina Extension Gardener Plant Toolbox](https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/juniperus-horizontalis/)

5. [Homes & Gardens](https://www.homesandgardens.com/gardens/how-to-grow-creeping-juniper)

6. (https://www.thespruce.com/creeping-juniper-plant-profile-5070516)}

Lilyturf (Liriope muscari):
Lilyturf can grow up to 18 inches in height and spread up to 24 inches. It can grow in zones 5 to 10 in the U.S., which include most of the states except for the coldest northern regions. Lilyturf blooms from late summer to early autumn, producing showy spikes of lavender or white flowers that resemble grape hyacinths. It needs

well-drained, sandy, and fairly fertile soil to thrive, and it prefers slightly acidic to neutral pH (6.0 to 7.0) [2][3]. It can also tolerate average soils, but not boggy or waterlogged ones. Lilyturf’s best growing conditions are partial to full shade, as it does not like very hot or humid climates [1][2]. It can also tolerate full sun, but it may need more watering and mulching to prevent drying out. It is a low-maintenance plant that can withstand drought, pollution, and soil erosion once established [2].

Lilyturf is a suitable plant for a raingarden or dry stream garden (dry creek bed with plants) in northeast Texas and southeast Oklahoma, as long as it is planted in a well-drained, sandy, and fairly fertile soil with partial to full shade. It is a good groundcover or edging for a raingarden, as it can tolerate wet or dry soil, sun or shade, and alkaline or acidic pH. It also produces showy spikes of lavender or white flowers that resemble heather [5]. Lilyturf can also be used in a dry stream garden, as it can withstand drought, pollution, and soil erosion once established. It has grass-like foliage and purple or white flowers that add color and texture to the dry creek bed [6].

Photo Credit: Famartin, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Resources:
1. Big Blue Lilyturf (Liriope muscari) Growing & Care Guide for Gardeners, Online resource.
2. Liriope muscari, North Carolina Extension Gardener Plant Toolbox. Online resource.
3. Liriope: Plant Care & Growing Guide, The Spruce. Online resource.
4. Liriope, Wikipedia. Online resource.
5. How to Plant and Grow Lilyturf, Better Homes & Gardens. Online resource.
6. How to Successfully Grow Lilyturf: A Field Guide, Gardenista. Online resource.

Purple Cone Flower (Echinacea purpurea):
Purple coneflower is an herbaceous perennial that typically grows 3-4 feet tall and 2-3 feet wide. Some cultivars may grow taller or shorter, depending on the growing conditions. Purple coneflower is native to North America and can be found in most of the eastern and central U.S., as well as some parts of the

western U.S.[2][3]. It grows in open prairies, meadows, and other moist habitats[1][2]. Purple coneflower prefers moist, medium to wet clay soil that does not dry out. It can tolerate some shade, but full sun is best for optimal flowering and growth. It is hardy in USDA zones 3-8. The best growing conditions for purple coneflower are similar to its native habitat: a wetland environment with full sun and moist soil[1][2]. It can also be grown in average garden soil if it is kept moist and mulched. Purple coneflower is a low maintenance plant that does not need much fertilizer or pruning. It blooms in early to mid-summer, producing fragrant, pink to mauve (sometimes white) flowers in rounded clusters. The flowers attract butterflies, bees, and other pollinators with their nectar[1][2]. The flowers are followed by green pods that split open to release brown seeds with silky hairs.

Photo Credit: H. Zell, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Resources:
1. Purple Coneflower: Plant Care & Growing Guide, The Spruce. Online resource.
2. Echinacea purpurea, Wikipedia. Online resource.
1. Purple coneflower (Echinacea purpurea)e, Backyard Ecology. Online resource.

Swamp milkweed (Asclepias incarnata):
Swamp milkweed is an erect, clump-forming plant that typically grows 3-4 feet tall and 2-3 feet wide [1][2]. Some cultivars may grow taller or shorter, depending on the growing conditions. It is native to North America and can be found in most of the eastern and central U.S., as well as some parts of the western U.S. [2][3].

It grows in swamps, river bottomlands, wet meadows, marshes, and other moist habitats. Swamp milkweed prefers moist, medium to wet clay soil that does not dry out. It can tolerate some shade, but full sun is best for optimal flowering and growth. It is hardy in USDA zones 3-6 [2]. The best growing conditions for swamp milkweed are similar to its native habitat: a wetland environment with full sun and moist soil. It can also be grown in average garden soil if it is kept moist and mulched. Swamp milkweed is a low maintenance plant that does not need much fertilizer or pruning. It blooms in early to mid-summer, producing fragrant, pink to mauve (sometimes white) flowers in rounded clusters. The flowers attract butterflies, bees, and other pollinators with their nectar [1][2]. The flowers are followed by green pods that split open to release brown seeds with silky hairs.

Photo Credit:peganum from Small Dole, England, CC BY-SA 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Resources:
1. How to Grow and Care for Swamp Milkweed, The Spruce. Online resource.
2. Asclepias incarnata, Wikipedia. Online resource.
3. Swamp Milkweed 101 – Guide to Asclepias Incarnata, Online resource.

Switchgrass (Panicum virgatum):
Switchgrass is an excellent choice for raingardens and other rainscaping features due to its adaptability to both wet and dry conditions. Its deep root system helps stabilize soil and prevent erosion, making it effective for managing stormwater runoff and improving soil health[1]. Additionally, switchgrass is drought-

tolerant once established, providing resilience in varying weather conditions[2]. Switchgrass is a versatile and low-maintenance plant that can significantly enhance the functionality and beauty of raingardens and other rainscaping features.

Dimensions: Switchgrass typically grows between 3 to 8 feet tall and spreads 1.5 to 5 feet wide[3]. Its height and dense growth habit make it a striking addition to any landscape, providing both visual interest and functional benefits.
Ideal Growing Conditions: Sun Exposure: Full sun to part shade[3]; Soil Type: Adaptable to a wide range of soils, including sandy, clay, and loamy soils. Prefers moist conditions but is also drought-tolerant[2]; Soil pH: Tolerates acidic, neutral, and alkaline soils[2]; Hardiness Zones: USDA zones 4-9[3].
Growing Regions in the U.S.: Switchgrass is native to North America and grows naturally in areas east of the Rocky Mountains, from southern Canada to Mexico[3]. It is commonly found in the tallgrass prairies of the Great Plains and is well-suited to a variety of climates across the eastern and central United States[4].
Best Uses in Raingardens and Rainscaping: Erosion Control: Planting switchgrass on slopes and in areas prone to erosion helps stabilize the soil and reduce runoff[1]; Stormwater Management: Its deep roots and dense growth make it ideal for absorbing and filtering rainwater, reducing the impact of heavy rains[1]; Aesthetic Appeal: Switchgrass adds texture, movement, and seasonal color to raingardens, with its airy flower spikes and changing foliage colors[3]; Wildlife Habitat: Provides food and shelter for birds and other wildlife, enhancing the ecological value of your landscape[3].

Photo Credit:David J. Stang, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Resources:
1. (https://www.laurensgardenservice.com/switchgrass-native-ornamental-grass-for-seasonal-interest/)
2. (https://www.laurensgardenservice.com/switchgrass-native-ornamental-grass-for-seasonal-interest/)
3. (https://www.laurensgardenservice.com/switchgrass-native-ornamental-grass-for-seasonal-interest/)
4. (https://www.laurensgardenservice.com/switchgrass-native-ornamental-grass-for-seasonal-interest/)

Periwinkle (Vinca Minor):
Periwinkle (Vinca Minor) is a popular choice for raingardens and rainscaping features due to its resilience and low-maintenance nature. Choose the Right Location: Select a spot with well-drained soil. Vinca Minor can thrive in full sun, partial shade, or full shade, but it prefers partial shade. Select a spot with well-

drained soil. Vinca Minor can thrive in full sun, partial shade, or full shade, but it prefers partial shade[4]. Vinca Minor can be invasive in some areas, particularly in regions with mild climates where it can spread rapidly and outcompete native plants[5].

Suitability for Raingardens: Erosion Control: Vinca Minor has a dense, mat-forming growth habit that helps stabilize soil and prevent erosion, making it ideal for slopes and areas prone to runoff; Versatility: It thrives in a variety of conditions, including full sun, partial shade, and full shade, which makes it adaptable to different parts of a raingarden; Low Maintenance: Once established, it requires minimal care and is drought-tolerant, reducing the need for frequent watering[1].
Dimensions: Height: Vinca Minor typically grows to a height of 3 to 6 inches; Spread: It can spread up to 18 inches wide, forming a dense ground cover[2].
Ideal Growing Conditions: Soil: Prefers well-drained soil but can tolerate a range of soil types, including loamy, sandy, and clay soils; Light: Grows well in full sun, partial shade, and full shade. However, it may become leggy in deep shade; Water: While it is drought-tolerant, it performs best with regular watering during dry periods[3].
Growing Regions in the U.S.: Hardiness Zones: Vinca Minor is hardy in USDA zones 4 through 9, which covers a large portion of the U.S.[1].
Best Use in Raingardens: Ground Cover: Its ability to form a dense mat makes it excellent for covering large areas and preventing weed growth; Erosion Control: Ideal for planting on slopes or areas with loose soil to prevent erosion[1]; Aesthetic Appeal: The plant produces attractive blue, lavender, or white flowers in the spring, adding visual interest to raingardens[3].

Photo Credit:Agnieszka Kwiecien, Nova, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Resources:
1. https://www.homesandgardens.com/gardens/how-to-grow-periwinkle): [Homes & Gardens](https://www.homesandgardens.com/gardens/how-to-grow-periwinkle)
2. (https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/vinca-minor/)” target=”_blank” rel=”noopener”>(https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/vinca-minor/): [North Carolina Extension Gardener Plant Toolbox](https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/vinca-minor/)
3. (https://www.thespruce.com/vinca-minor-vines-2132217): [The Spruce](https://www.thespruce.com/vinca-minor-vines-2132217)
4. (https://www.thespruce.com/vinca-minor-vines-2132217)
5. (https://gardenrant.com/2018/09/invasive-ground-covers-and-the-case-for-allowing-periwinkle.html)

Yarrow (Achillea millefolium):
Yarrow (Achillea millefolium) is a perennial plant that can grow up to 2 feet tall and 2 feet wide. It is native to North America, especially the eastern and central regions. It prefers full sun or light shade and well-drained, average to moist soil. It blooms in late summer to early fall, producing pink, white, or yellow, flat-topped

flower clusters. It is a hardy and versatile plant that is resistant to most pests and diseases, and attracts butterflies and other pollinators.[1]

Photo Credit: Humoyun Mehridinov, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Resources: 1. Achillea millefolium, Wikipedia. Online resource.

OKLAHOMA RAIN GARDEN PLANTS

Click image to enlarge.

A draft of the Oklahoma Rain Garden Plant List by Oklahoma Department of Environmental Quality recommends the following native Oklahoma plants for rain gardens:

partial shade to full shade and moist, well-drained soils, adding aesthetic appeal with its vibrant blue to purple flowers in late spring^[1].

Photo Credit:H. Zell, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Blazing Star (Liatris spicata):
Blazing Star grows to a height of 2 to 5 feet and a width of 9 to 18 inches[1][2]. It is native to the eastern North America, where it grows in moist prairies and sedge meadows. It is hardy in USDA zones 3 to 9 [2]. It needs full sun and well-drained soil to thrive [1][2]. It can tolerate drought, poor soil, and humidity,

prefering a slightly acidic to neutral soil pH of 5.5 to 7.5. Its best growing conditions are medium-moisture, quick-draining soil in a sunny location. It can benefit from some mulch to retain moisture and prevent weeds. It also needs good air circulation to prevent fungal diseases. Blazing Star blooms from mid-summer to early fall, producing tall spikes of vibrant purple or white flowers that attract bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds [2][3]. The flowers open from the top to the bottom of the spike.

Photo Credit: Drew Avery, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Resources:
1. How to Grow and Care for Liatris (Blazing Star), The Spruce. Online resource.
2. How to Plant and Grow Blazing Star Flowers (Liatris Spicata), Online resource.
3. Liatris spicata, Wikipedia. Online resource.

Bushy Bluestem (Andropogon glomeratus):
Bushy Bluestem grows to a height of 2 to 6 feet and a width of 2 to 3 feet [1][2]. Common names are: Bluestem,Broomsedge, Bush Beard Grass, Bushy Beard Grass, and Bushy Blue stem. It is native to the eastern and southern United States, where it grows in moist to wet soils. It is hardy in USDA zones 3 to 9,

needing full sun and moist to damp soil to thrive. Bushy Bluestem can tolerate fire, deer, and poor soil. It prefers a soil pH of 5.5 to 7.5. Its best growing conditions are full sun and moist to wet soil. Bushy Bluestem can benefit from some mulch to retain moisture and prevent weeds [2]. It also needs good air circulation to prevent fungal diseases. It blooms from fall to winter, producing tall spikes of silvery pink to white flowers that attract birds, butterflies, and small mammals [1][2][3]. The flowers are densely clustered, clublike, and hairy.

Photo Credit: Forest & Kim Starr, CC BY 3.0 US, via Wikimedia Commons

Resources:
1. Andropogon glomeratus (Bushy Bluestem), iNaturalist. Online resource.
2. Andropogon glomeratus, Online resource.
3. Bushy Bluestem (Florida Facultative Wetland Species ), Online resource.

Photo Credit: SterlingHerron, CC0, via Wikimedia Commons

Cardinal Flower (Lobelia cardinalis):
Cardinal Flower grows to a height of 2 to 5 feet and a width of 9 to 18 inches. It is native to the eastern and southern United States, where it grows in moist to wet soils [3]. It is hardy in USDA zones 3 to 9. It needs full sun and moist to damp soil to thrive. Cardinal Flower can tolerate fire, deer, and poor soil.

It prefers a soil pH of 5.5 to 7.5 [1]. Its best growing conditions are full sun and moist to wet soil. It can benefit from some mulch to retain moisture and prevent weeds. It also needs good air circulation to prevent fungal diseases. It blooms from summer to early fall, producing tall spikes of scarlet red, pink, or white flowers that attract birds, butterflies, and hummingbirds[1][2][3]. The flowers of Cardinal Flower are tubular and clustered. [1][2] Other common names: Common Names: Indian Pink, Lobelia.

Photo Credit: Laval University, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Resources:
1. How to Grow and Care for Cardinal Flower, The Spruce. Online resource.
2. Lobelia cardinalis, Wikipedia. Online resource.
3. Lobelia cardinalis (Cardinal Flower, Indian Pink, Lobelia), NC State Extension. Online resource.

Elderberry (Sambucus canadensis):
The Elderberry (Sambucus canadensis) is a deciduous shrub or small tree that can grow up to 12 feet tall and 6 feet wide. It is native to North America and can be found in all areas of the U.S., especially along streams, marshes, moist forests, and disturbed areas. Elderberry needs moist but well-drained, humusy

soil in full sun to partial shade to thrive, tolerating a variety of soil conditions and pH levels, but preferring neutral to acidic soil. It blooms in summer, producing fragrant, creamy-white flowers in flat-topped or rounded clusters. The flowers are followed by edible, purple-black fruits that ripen in late summer or fall. The fruits can be cooked and used in pies, pancakes, jellies, wine, and other dishes. Elderberry flowers can also be used to make wine, cordials, and syrups. Elderberry is a valuable plant for wildlife, as it provides food and shelter for birds, butterflies, and other pollinators. It is also a good plant for erosion control and wetland restoration[1][2].

Photo Credit: I, SB Johnny, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Resources:
1. American Elderberry: Plant Care & Growing Guide, The Spruce. Online resource.
2. Sambucus canadensis (American Elder, American Elderberry, The Spruce. NC State Extension.
3. Elderberry, Florida Wildflower Foundation. Online resource.

False Indigo (Amorpha fruticosa):
False Indigo is a deciduous shrub or small tree that can grow up to 15 feet tall and 10 feet wide. It is native to North America and can be found in all areas of the United States, especially along streams, marshes, moist forests, and disturbed areas [2][3]. False Indigo needs full sun to light shade and moist to dry,

well-drained soils to thrive. It can tolerate a variety of soil conditions and pH levels, but prefers a neutral to slightly acidic soil [1][2][3]. It blooms in late spring to early summer, producing fragrant, purple-blue flowers in spike-like clusters. The flowers are followed by brown seed pods that can be left on the plant for winter interest. The seeds can be used to propagate the plant by scarification; the plant can also spread by suckers and form dense thickets [1][2][3].

Photo Credit: Krzysztof Ziarnek, Kenraiz, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Resources:
1. How to Grow and Care for False Indigo, The Spruce. Online resource.
2. Amorpha fruticosa (Bastard Indigo, Online resource.
3. False Indigo (Amorpha fruticosa), Illinois Wildflowers. Online resource.

Gaura (Gaura lindheimeri):
Gaura can grow from 15 to 60 inches tall and spread up to 36 inches wide. It is native to Texas and Louisiana [2], but can also grow in other parts of the U.S. where the hardiness zones are 5 to 9 [1][2]. Gaura prefers sandy, loamy, well-drained soils in full sun, tolerating heat, humidity and some drought. It

blooms from summer to fall, producing white or pink flowers that fade to pink. The flowers attract bees, butterflies and hummingbirds [1][2].

Photo Credit: Wouter Hagens, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

Resources:
1. How to Grow and Care for Gaura (Beeblossom), Gardener’s Path. Online resource.
2. Oenothera lindheimeri, Plant Finder – Missouri Botanical Garden. Online resource.
3. How to Grow and Care for Gaura (Wandflower), The Spruce. Online resource.

Goldenrod (Solidago spp.):
Goldenrod can grow from 1 to 5 feet tall and spread up to 3 feet wide. Its flowers are small but dense, forming showy plumes or panicles. It is native to North and South America, with a few species in Eurasia. It can grow in most parts of the U.S. where the hardiness zones are 5 to 9 [2]. Goldenrod likes sunny locations

with well-drained soils of various types, and can tolerate heat, humidity and some drought. It blooms from mid-summer to fall, producing bright yellow flowers that attract many pollinators [1][2][3].

Photo Credit: Marek Slusarczyk, CC BY 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Resources:
1. Solidago (Goldenrod, Golden Rod), North Carolina Extension Gardener. Online resource.
2. Solidag, Wikipedia. Online resource.
3. Solidago (Goldenrod), Gardenia. Online resource.

Indian Blanket (Gaillardia pulchella):
Indian Blanket can grow from 15 to 60 inches tall and spread up to 36 inches wide. It is native to northern Mexico and the southern and central United States from Arizona east to Florida and the Carolinas and north as far as Nebraska. It is also naturalized in scattered locations in other parts of the U.S. as well as in

Québec, Ontario, China, South Africa, and parts of Central and South America. Indian Blanket blooms from summer to fall, producing daisy-like flower heads with red, orange and yellow colors. It prefers sunny locations with well-drained soils of various types. It can tolerate heat, humidity and some drought.

Photo Credit: Starlily37, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Resources:
1. Gaillardia pulchella (Indian Blanket), Gardenia. Online resource.
2. Gaillardia pulchella, Wikipedia. Online resource.
3. Indian Blanket (Gaillardia pulchella), iNaturalist. Online resource.

Photo Credit: Famartin, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Photo Credit:David J. Stang, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Photo Credit:Agnieszka Kwiecien, Nova, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Resources

Resource Links

1
How to Build a Rain Garden to Capture Runoff, Tenth Acre Farm. Online resource.
2
Amazing Rain Garden Design Ideas, HGTV. Online resource.
3
Sidewalk Rain Gardens – Utilities, Online resource.
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Beautify Your Sidewalk With This Easy Street-Side Garden Plan, Online resource.

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Resources: 1. Achillea millefolium, Wikipedia. Online resource.

Trench Digging Services

When ground conditions are favorable, open cut trenching allows for quicker and more efficient utilities installation and inspection than methods such as boring. Both methods have pros and cons.

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Pond Building Services

Pond building is a detailed and meticulous process that requires careful planning and precision in order to create the desired shape and size. Aftre the planning and preliminaries, the first pond buildig step is to excavate the area where it will be located. The end result of a well-planned and excavated pond will be to increase your enjoyment of your property aethetically and in terms of its value.

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Landscape Grading & Drainage Contractor

If you’re experiencing poor drainage on your property, it’s important to address the issue promptly to prevent further damage and potential safety hazards. We can help identify the root cause of your drainage problems and provide effective solutions to keep your property safe and well-maintained.

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French Drain Systems

French drains use gravity to divert ground water away from building foundations, drain water from a low-lying landscape areas, collect unwanted surface water, preventing flooding of lawns, patios, walkways, and drives, and other drainage issues.

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