Written by the team at Boulder Ridge Landscaping | Updated June 2025
Creating a beautiful landscape isn’t just about color and curb appeal—it’s about choosing the right plants for long-term success. At Boulder Ridge Landscaping, we’ve seen firsthand how using native plants can transform a yard from high-maintenance to low-stress while benefiting the environment at the same time.
If you want a yard that thrives in Wisconsin’s climate, supports pollinators, and looks great year-round, the smartest place to start is with native plants.
What Are Native Plants?
Native plants are species that have naturally evolved in a specific region over thousands of years. In Wisconsin, this means grasses, flowers, shrubs, and trees that are perfectly adapted to our seasons, soils, and wildlife.
They’ve survived our winters, thrived in our summers, and learned to live in harmony with local ecosystems. Unlike exotic or non-native plants, they don’t need special treatment or constant care to survive.
Why Go Native? The Key Benefits
Less Watering, Less Worry
Native plants are built for Wisconsin’s climate. Once established, they require far less water than non-native varieties—perfect for eco-conscious homeowners and for getting through dry summer spells.
Support Pollinators and Local Wildlife
Bees, butterflies, and birds depend on native plants for food and shelter. Adding milkweed, coneflowers, or wild bergamot to your yard helps restore natural habitats and brings your landscape to life.
Naturally Disease-Resistant
Because native plants have evolved in our region, they’re more resistant to local pests and diseases. That means fewer chemicals, healthier soil, and less worry.
Lower Maintenance Costs
No special fertilizers, no weekly pruning schedules, no constant replacing of dead plants. Native landscaping saves time and money over the long haul.
Popular Native Plants for Wisconsin Landscapes
If you’re not sure where to start, here are some tried-and-true favorites we often recommend:
- Purple Coneflower (Echinacea purpurea) – Beautiful and pollinator-friendly
- Little Bluestem (Schizachyrium scoparium) – Great for structure and winter interest
- Black-Eyed Susan (Rudbeckia hirta) – Bright, cheerful, and low-maintenance
- Wild Bergamot (Monarda fistulosa) – A hummingbird favorite
- Red Osier Dogwood (Cornus sericea) – Perfect for privacy and vibrant winter color
- Prairie Dropseed (Sporobolus heterolepis) – Soft texture and drought-tolerant
How Boulder Ridge Can Help
We specialize in designing and installing landscapes that are not only beautiful, but sustainable. Whether you’re starting from scratch or integrating native plants into an existing design, we’ll help you create a smart yard that thrives with less effort and more impact.
Smarter Choices, Stronger Landscapes
If you want a yard that works with nature—not against it—native plants are the best place to begin. Let Boulder Ridge Landscaping design a landscape that reflects Wisconsin’s natural beauty and works for your lifestyle.
📞 Call us today to start your native plant transformation. Your yard—and the planet—will thank you.