The Homegrown National Park Initiative

by Tammy Sons – July 15, 2024

 Insects are in trouble

Climate change and habitat destruction are reducing the number and types of insects worldwide. Since about two-thirds of the food we eat is pollinated by insects, our own survival may hinge on their fate.

Homegrown National Parks Doug Tallamy, an entomologist and professor at the University of Delaware, has developed the Homegrown National Park Initiative. Our national parks are for wildlife, but they are spread too far apart to allow wildlife from one park to migrate to another park to find a mate. Seventy-eight percent of the land in the lower United States is privately owned. Everyone must do their part by planting things that provide migrating wildlife, including insects, a travel corridor between national parks and other wild areas. 

This keeps isolated populations from becoming genetically stunted due to inbreeding. Tallamy’s 20 million acre goal represents half of lawns or other lands that can be easily converted to natural landscapes.  Not only does this provide a habitat for wild things, but it also sequesters more carbon, reduces water usage, and reduces the need for pesticides and fertilizers.

While the initiative talks about replacing lawns with native plant species, it recognizes that not everyone can do that

However, if each of us removes one non-native plant from our landscape and plants a native plant there instead, we can provide a bridge across habitats for vital pollinators and other beneficial insects.  Insects and other wildlife can travel from one significant habitat to the next large habitat by stopping and resting and feeding at the native plants in people’s yards.

Monarch Waystations

If you live in a part of the country where the monarch butterfly migrates, you may have heard of the Monarch Waystation concept taught by Monarch Watch. Planting native milkweed species for monarch butterflies to lay their eggs on and shelter in gives this imperiled butterfly a fighting chance. The Homegrown Parks Initiative expands this idea to all species of insects as well as other wildlife. No Yard Required People without a yard can put native plants in flowerpots on their porch or balcony and help.  Every little bit helps, especially if all of us pitch in.  You can also ask your local parks department to plant more native and less turfgrass. 

Planting wildflowers instead of lawns can save the parks department a substantial amount of money on mowing, fertilizers, and pesticides

  If you live in an area managed by a property management company, you can request they use more native plants. What Is A Native Plant? A native plant is a plant that is adapted to the conditions of that area.  It has evolved to manage the amount of rainfall, temperature range, and pest population naturally occurring in an area.  The plant is resistant to common diseases in that area.  Of course, all plants need supplemental water when getting established or in a significant drought, but they manage the rest of the time with little from you. This means that once the plant is established, it requires very little supplemental water, fertilizer, or pesticides to grow and thrive in that area. 

Contrast that with turf grass, which needs lots of water and fertilizer and often needs chemicals to control diseases and pests so the grass can grow.

Finding Native Plants

More and more nurseries are stocking plants native to the region where they operate.  Of course, different plants are native to other areas of the country, so there isn’t just one list of native plants.  You can use several resources to find what is native where you live. Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center This center in Austin has a list of plants native to the United States. If you go to the plant's database and scroll down to the combination search, you can choose your area of the country and specify things like the amount of sun, soil moisture, bloom season, bloom color, and other characteristics.

The database will return a list of native plants that match your area and your criteria. If you want to see if a plant you fancy is native to your area, you can enter the plant name on the search page.  The information on each plant specifies where it is native to and what habitat it will be happiest in.

Native Plant Society

The North American Native Plant Society has chapters all over the country.  Their goal is to teach people to plant only native plants in their landscapes.  While you may not be ready to tear out your lawn and non-native plants, you can know what native perennials and annuals live in your area.  Native plantings can produce a spectacular show if given a chance with much less water and other inputs than non-native plant Extension Service In the United States, a network of Extension Service offices is charged with helping people make the most of their resources to live healthy lives. 

Extension was started to help people understand the research being conducted and put the discoveries to use.  For example, an experiment station may research how to grow peaches.  Extension agents teach that research to people growing peaches as a cash crop.  They also teach it to people growing peaches in their backyard.

Extension agents can provide lists of native plants that grow in the area.  They also give short lectures on all the plants in the area.  Many more populated areas have a master gardener program that provides speakers on how to grow practically everything, including native plants, to interested clubs.  You can find your Extension state office here, leading you to your local Extension office. 

Extension information is provided to you at no cost, although some workshops and classes charge a nominal fee.

Nurseries Like Us

TN Nursery can help you in several ways.  We offer curated lists of native plants that feed pollinators, hummingbirds, and other birds with nectar, pollen, or fruit and grow in your zone.  If you have a list of plants you want to put in your yard, find them on our website and build an order to deliver them right to your door.  Check out TN Nurseries' blog for some of the latest information on plant trends and solutions to your plant issues.  Finally, if you have specific questions, feel free to contact us.

Easiest Plants To Make Your Own Waystation With To Attract Monarch

Black Eyed Susan

Blanket Flower

Coneflower

Check Our Other Pollinator Plants Below

Pollinator Plants 

 

Products from the article

Black Eyed Susan - TN Nursery

Black Eyed Susan

Black Eyed Susan has vibrant yellow petals and dark, contrasting centers and is a popular and delightful addition to any landscaping project. This native North American wildflower offers a host of pleasing attributes that make it a sought-after choice for gardens and outdoor spaces. From its adaptability to its visual appeal and ecological benefits, it stands out as a versatile and attractive plant.  Black-Eyed Susan (Rudbeckia Hirta) Is A Long-Blooming Perennial  The Black-Eyed Susan or Rudbeckia Hirta is a beautiful and popular flower that blooms each year in North America. With yellow flowers surrounding a dark circular center, this plant serves an aesthetic purpose in any landscape and draws in bees and butterflies. Due to its hardiness and versatility, the plant is suitable for growing in the garden for beginners and professionals.  The Black-Eyed susan is valued for ornamental purposes and its contribution to ecosystem maintenance. Moreover, black-eyed susan plants for sale have stunning flowers that can be added to your garden for curb appeal. Features of Black Eyed Susan Plant The Black-Eyed Susan has bright yellow petals with a dark brown or black Eye in the middle, which makes it a vivid plant that would look great in any garden.  This plant attracts bees, butterflies, and many other beneficial insects, so it should be included in any pollinator garden. The black-eyed susan plant is relatively adaptable. It does well in arid conditions and simple soil types, making it a perfect pick for any low-maintenance garden. Black-Eyed Susans Are Excellent Pollinator Plants It prefers regions receiving full or partial sun exposure. It has a growth habit of 2 to 3 feet tall with a similar width, enhancing the green appearance of areas where it is grown. This plant does not need much attention once established and usually grows well. It is relatively immune to many garden pests and diseases. Growers of black-eyed susan plants can also contribute to habitat and care for one's patch of land by offering food for pollinators and other more valuable insects. Black Eyed Susan Perennials Returns Every Spring and Summer Season Buy black-eyed susan plants and add these beautiful flowers to your garden, like our other popular ornamental plants, such as echinacea, shasta daisy, or coneflower plants. Where Does Black Eyed Susan Grow Best  Black-eyed Susans do well in regions with full sun exposure. Ensure they are exposed to at least six hours of sunshine daily. They like well-draining soils and will grow in a range of soil types.  What Do Black-Eyed Susans Symbolize  Black-eyed Susans symbolize encouragement, motivation, and justice. Their bright yellow color with a black center is linked with positivism and strength, making them perfect for any garden.  What Is The Best Fertilizer To Grow Black-Eyed Susans Black-eyed Susans prefer a slow-release fertilizer, preferably a 10-10-10 N-P-K ration. Use it sparingly as they grow because these plants are not heavy feeders.  How Tall Do Black Eyed Susans Get  They are perennials that, depending on their type, can reach a height of 1 to 3 feet. They provide great accents to borders and garden landscapes.  How Long Does It Take To Grow Black-Eyed Susan  Black-eyed Susans can take from 60 to 90 days to bloom after germination from seeds. The plants return year after year, blooming mid to late summer and continuing into early fall.
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Blanket Flower - TN Nursery

Blanket Flower

Blanket Flower is a perennial wildflower known for its vibrant, daisy-like blooms with red or yellow petals and dark center disks. Often found in prairies and gardens, it attracts pollinators and adds color to landscapes. This plant is the perfect choice when craving warmth. This radiant wildflower with an extended blooming season will light up your garden with a kaleidoscope of glowing colors.  Blanket Flower (Gaillardia aristata) Thrives In Drought and Full Sun Blanket Flower, or Gaillardia, is a sun-loving perennial with stunning two-toned daisy-like blooms. The name "Blanket Flower" interestingly comes from its warm yet vibrant red and yellow blooms, which are similar to the blankets Native Americans make.  This wildflower plant belongs to the Asteraceae (daisy) family and is native to North and South America. It is commonly found in Arizona, California, Arkansas, Indiana, Iowa, and Colorado. Blanket Flowers Resembles Daisy Perennials While it may resemble a daisy, blanket flowers are related to sunflowers and brighten up the dullest landscapes. The plant is usually paired with other drought-tolerant plants and showy grass to enhance the visual interest of the entire landscape. Moreover, blanket flowers for sale come in various warm shades and a few fabulous shades, making them a statement piece in the garden. Features of Blanket Flower Plant The plant grows best in total sun exposure, sandy areas, and poor soil. The poorer the soil, the more blooms it will grow.  The blanket flower features blooms in various colors, such as orange, purple, red, yellow, and White. Depending on the season, the foliage can be either blue-green or gray-silver.  This ornamental plant can reach 1-3 feet in height and 1-2 feet in width. Water the plant every other day during the first growing period until you see flowers. Once established, it's easy to care for and does not require regular watering to stay alive.  The Blanket flower is an ecosystem booster, so it loves pollinators, birds, and other wildlife Though people with sensitive skin may experience skin irritation, the plant is non-toxic to humans and animals. This vibrant perennial pairs well with low-maintenance and drought-tolerant perennials, like Butterfly Weed, Yarrow, and Daylily. So, along with blanket flower plants for sale, check out other companion plants at T.N. Nursery.  How Long Does A Blanket Flower Live  Blanket flowers live approximately 2 to 3 years in optimal climates and conditions. However, they self-seed and germinated every year and manifested their presence around the garden.  Why are they called Blanket Flower  They are named so due to the resemblance of their multi-colored and beautiful flowers to a patterned blanket. The flowers have lush reds, oranges, and yellows, providing a warm, bright view all through the season.  Does Blanket Flower Multiply  Indeed, blanket flowers reproduce both by seeds and by rhizomes. They can form larger clusters in time, giving the garden excellent bloom spots more often.  Does Blanket Flower Need To Be Deadheaded  Deadheading is not mandatory for growing blanket flowers, but this practice promotes more blooms and keeps the plants neat. Blanket flowers grow in well-drained soils and prefer minimal fertilization. During spring, you should only apply a small portion of a balanced fertilizer to encourage growth. Too much fertilizer may hamper the bright blooms.
$6.99
$6.99
Coneflower Plant - TN Nursery

Purple Coneflower

Echinacea plants like purple coneflower (Echinacea purpurea) are favorites in the garden for their beauty, ease of maintenance, and hardiness. They’re perfect for those who enjoy an attractive, pollinator-friendly perennial. Purple Coneflower Echinacea Plants are extremely easy to cultivate They prefer good soil and full sun but will also tolerate some shade. Planting them is simple, you simply make a hole rather than bury the root ball in the soil and water it. Once established, they do not require a lot of maintenance or attention, not even watering when it’s still dry. They are drought-tolerant and pest-resistant and attract pollinators like bees and butterflies.  Seasonal Beauty and Blooming Cycle  They are known to bloom throughout the summer and late fall. The purple-pink petals of each bloom cluster around a coppery-orange cone. Winter dries up the flowers, and decorative seed heads appear in winter to attract birds. The bloom season lasts many weeks after summer arrives. Even into late fall, you will see birds and monarchs feasting off these plants.  Shape and Longevity of Echinacea Plants Purple Coneflowers are tall, graceful plants growing two to four feet tall. They are striking because of their daisy flowers and their somber green leaves. The perennials are perennial and can endure for decades when cared for appropriately, thus offering an excellent, stable, and durable option for any garden.  
$6.99
$6.99
Black Eyed Susan - TN Nursery

Black Eyed Susan

Black Eyed Susan has vibrant yellow petals and dark, contrasting centers and is a popular and delightful addition to any landscaping project. This native North American wildflower offers a host of pleasing attributes that make it a sought-after choice for gardens and outdoor spaces. From its adaptability to its visual appeal and ecological benefits, it stands out as a versatile and attractive plant.  Black-Eyed Susan (Rudbeckia Hirta) Is A Long-Blooming Perennial  The Black-Eyed Susan or Rudbeckia Hirta is a beautiful and popular flower that blooms each year in North America. With yellow flowers surrounding a dark circular center, this plant serves an aesthetic purpose in any landscape and draws in bees and butterflies. Due to its hardiness and versatility, the plant is suitable for growing in the garden for beginners and professionals.  The Black-Eyed susan is valued for ornamental purposes and its contribution to ecosystem maintenance. Moreover, black-eyed susan plants for sale have stunning flowers that can be added to your garden for curb appeal. Features of Black Eyed Susan Plant The Black-Eyed Susan has bright yellow petals with a dark brown or black Eye in the middle, which makes it a vivid plant that would look great in any garden.  This plant attracts bees, butterflies, and many other beneficial insects, so it should be included in any pollinator garden. The black-eyed susan plant is relatively adaptable. It does well in arid conditions and simple soil types, making it a perfect pick for any low-maintenance garden. Black-Eyed Susans Are Excellent Pollinator Plants It prefers regions receiving full or partial sun exposure. It has a growth habit of 2 to 3 feet tall with a similar width, enhancing the green appearance of areas where it is grown. This plant does not need much attention once established and usually grows well. It is relatively immune to many garden pests and diseases. Growers of black-eyed susan plants can also contribute to habitat and care for one's patch of land by offering food for pollinators and other more valuable insects. Black Eyed Susan Perennials Returns Every Spring and Summer Season Buy black-eyed susan plants and add these beautiful flowers to your garden, like our other popular ornamental plants, such as echinacea, shasta daisy, or coneflower plants. Where Does Black Eyed Susan Grow Best  Black-eyed Susans do well in regions with full sun exposure. Ensure they are exposed to at least six hours of sunshine daily. They like well-draining soils and will grow in a range of soil types.  What Do Black-Eyed Susans Symbolize  Black-eyed Susans symbolize encouragement, motivation, and justice. Their bright yellow color with a black center is linked with positivism and strength, making them perfect for any garden.  What Is The Best Fertilizer To Grow Black-Eyed Susans Black-eyed Susans prefer a slow-release fertilizer, preferably a 10-10-10 N-P-K ration. Use it sparingly as they grow because these plants are not heavy feeders.  How Tall Do Black Eyed Susans Get  They are perennials that, depending on their type, can reach a height of 1 to 3 feet. They provide great accents to borders and garden landscapes.  How Long Does It Take To Grow Black-Eyed Susan  Black-eyed Susans can take from 60 to 90 days to bloom after germination from seeds. The plants return year after year, blooming mid to late summer and continuing into early fall.
$6.99
$6.99
Blanket Flower - TN Nursery

Blanket Flower

Blanket Flower is a perennial wildflower known for its vibrant, daisy-like blooms with red or yellow petals and dark center disks. Often found in prairies and gardens, it attracts pollinators and adds color to landscapes. This plant is the perfect choice when craving warmth. This radiant wildflower with an extended blooming season will light up your garden with a kaleidoscope of glowing colors.  Blanket Flower (Gaillardia aristata) Thrives In Drought and Full Sun Blanket Flower, or Gaillardia, is a sun-loving perennial with stunning two-toned daisy-like blooms. The name "Blanket Flower" interestingly comes from its warm yet vibrant red and yellow blooms, which are similar to the blankets Native Americans make.  This wildflower plant belongs to the Asteraceae (daisy) family and is native to North and South America. It is commonly found in Arizona, California, Arkansas, Indiana, Iowa, and Colorado. Blanket Flowers Resembles Daisy Perennials While it may resemble a daisy, blanket flowers are related to sunflowers and brighten up the dullest landscapes. The plant is usually paired with other drought-tolerant plants and showy grass to enhance the visual interest of the entire landscape. Moreover, blanket flowers for sale come in various warm shades and a few fabulous shades, making them a statement piece in the garden. Features of Blanket Flower Plant The plant grows best in total sun exposure, sandy areas, and poor soil. The poorer the soil, the more blooms it will grow.  The blanket flower features blooms in various colors, such as orange, purple, red, yellow, and White. Depending on the season, the foliage can be either blue-green or gray-silver.  This ornamental plant can reach 1-3 feet in height and 1-2 feet in width. Water the plant every other day during the first growing period until you see flowers. Once established, it's easy to care for and does not require regular watering to stay alive.  The Blanket flower is an ecosystem booster, so it loves pollinators, birds, and other wildlife Though people with sensitive skin may experience skin irritation, the plant is non-toxic to humans and animals. This vibrant perennial pairs well with low-maintenance and drought-tolerant perennials, like Butterfly Weed, Yarrow, and Daylily. So, along with blanket flower plants for sale, check out other companion plants at T.N. Nursery.  How Long Does A Blanket Flower Live  Blanket flowers live approximately 2 to 3 years in optimal climates and conditions. However, they self-seed and germinated every year and manifested their presence around the garden.  Why are they called Blanket Flower  They are named so due to the resemblance of their multi-colored and beautiful flowers to a patterned blanket. The flowers have lush reds, oranges, and yellows, providing a warm, bright view all through the season.  Does Blanket Flower Multiply  Indeed, blanket flowers reproduce both by seeds and by rhizomes. They can form larger clusters in time, giving the garden excellent bloom spots more often.  Does Blanket Flower Need To Be Deadheaded  Deadheading is not mandatory for growing blanket flowers, but this practice promotes more blooms and keeps the plants neat. Blanket flowers grow in well-drained soils and prefer minimal fertilization. During spring, you should only apply a small portion of a balanced fertilizer to encourage growth. Too much fertilizer may hamper the bright blooms.
$6.99
$6.99
Coneflower Plant - TN Nursery

Purple Coneflower

Echinacea plants like purple coneflower (Echinacea purpurea) are favorites in the garden for their beauty, ease of maintenance, and hardiness. They’re perfect for those who enjoy an attractive, pollinator-friendly perennial. Purple Coneflower Echinacea Plants are extremely easy to cultivate They prefer good soil and full sun but will also tolerate some shade. Planting them is simple, you simply make a hole rather than bury the root ball in the soil and water it. Once established, they do not require a lot of maintenance or attention, not even watering when it’s still dry. They are drought-tolerant and pest-resistant and attract pollinators like bees and butterflies.  Seasonal Beauty and Blooming Cycle  They are known to bloom throughout the summer and late fall. The purple-pink petals of each bloom cluster around a coppery-orange cone. Winter dries up the flowers, and decorative seed heads appear in winter to attract birds. The bloom season lasts many weeks after summer arrives. Even into late fall, you will see birds and monarchs feasting off these plants.  Shape and Longevity of Echinacea Plants Purple Coneflowers are tall, graceful plants growing two to four feet tall. They are striking because of their daisy flowers and their somber green leaves. The perennials are perennial and can endure for decades when cared for appropriately, thus offering an excellent, stable, and durable option for any garden.  
$6.99
$6.99

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