Kansas Native Plants

Kansas, known for its diverse climate and weather patterns, presents certain gardening challenges. However, these challenges can be easily overcome with knowledge and the right choice of plants.

Kansas experiences a continental climate characterized by hot, humid summers and cold, dry winters. Our state is also known for its wide temperature fluctuations, both daily and seasonally, which can be a challenge for plants that are not adapted to such conditions.

Another significant aspect of Kansas weather is the wind. The state is located in the heart of Tornado Alley and experiences some of the highest average wind speeds in the country. High winds can cause soil erosion, damage plants, and dry out the soil quickly, making watering a crucial part of garden maintenance.

Drought is another common occurrence in Kansas, especially in the western part of the state. Periods of low rainfall can stress plants and make them more susceptible to pests and diseases.

Despite these challenges, gardening in Kansas is far from impossible. The key is to work with the climate, not against it. This is where native plants come in. Kansas native plants evolved to thrive in the state's unique conditions. They are adapted to withstand the hot summers, cold winters, high winds, and periods of drought.

For example, plants like the orange butterfly milkweed and prairie blazing star have evolved in Kansas and are mainly able to withstand droughts. Even if they start to look limp, they are resilient and can bounce back once conditions improve.

Native grasses like little bluestem and prairie dropseed have deep root systems that withstand high winds and dry conditions. They also add movement and texture to your garden, providing visual interest even in the harshest weather.

While Kansas does present certain gardening challenges, they can be overcome with the right choice of plants and gardening practices. By choosing native plants and creating a garden that works with the local climate, you can create a beautiful, re

Understanding the USDA gardening zones is crucial for successful gardening, and in Kansas, we have a diverse range that allows for a wide variety of plants to thrive. Kansas falls into four USDA plant hardiness zones: 5b, 6a, 6b, and 7a.

The average annual extreme minimum temperature determines these zones during a 30-year period, not the lowest temperature that has occurred in the past or might occur in the future. This means that even though Kansas can sometimes experience temperatures that are lower or higher than those ranges, these are the temperatures you can expect most winters.

In the cooler Zone 5b, you'll find Kansas native plants like the whorled milkweed and great St. John's wort, which are well-adapted to handle the colder temperatures. As you move into the warmer Zones 6a and 6b, a wider variety of Kansas native flowers, including the vibrant orange butterfly milkweed and the resilient prairie blazing star, become viable.

In the warmest parts of Kansas, Zone 7a, you can experiment with Kansas state plants that prefer a bit more heat, like the purple lovegrass.

No matter where you live in Kansas, there's a wealth of Kansas wildflowers, grasses, and other native plants that can make your garden a beautiful and environmentally-friendly space. Whether you're looking to buy native plants for Kansas to create a lush, vibrant garden, or you're interested in joining the anti-lawn movement with a wildflower meadow, understanding your USDA gardening zone is the first step to choosing the right plants for your space.

Remember, our Kansas native plants list is a great resource to start with when planning your garden.

Creating a wildlife-friendly garden in Kansas is a rewarding endeavor that enhances the beauty of your space and contributes to local biodiversity. The key to attracting wildlife is to plant native species that provide food and other habitat for various creatures.

Monarch butterflies, for instance, are particularly attracted to milkweed. Planting milkweed species in your garden can turn it into a haven for these beautiful insects. Milkweed plants and monarch butterflies go hand in hand. Milkweed is the sole food source and habitat for monarch caterpillars, and it also offers nectar to adult butterflies.

Bees are vital pollinators drawn to a wide range of Kansas native flowers. Golden alexander, wild geranium, and blue wood aster are excellent choices for a bee-friendly garden, so they make up our Spring Bee Buffet 6-Plant Collection. These plants provide abundant nectar and pollen, essential food sources for our native bee species.

Birds are another group of wildlife you want to attract to your garden. Native plants like the rough blazing star, long-headed coneflower, prairie dropseed, and Maximilian's sunflower, all part of our Summer Songbird Plant Collection, produce seeds that many bird species enjoy. Additionally, native grasses can provide shelter for ground-nesting birds.

If you're interested in attracting a variety of wildlife, consider creating a diverse garden with a mix of Kansas wildflowers, grasses, and shrubs. Different species are attracted to different types of plants, so a diverse garden is more likely to support a wide range of wildlife.

Remember, the goal is to create a balanced ecosystem where wildlife and plants thrive together. Buying native plants for Kansas takes a step towards creating a healthier and more sustainable environment in your backyard. So explore our Kansas native plants list to find the perfect plants for your wildlife-friendly garden.

Incorporating water features into your Kansas garden can create a tranquil and inviting atmosphere while providing essential resources for local wildlife. When selecting a water feature, consider options that reflect the natural beauty of Kansas's diverse ecosystems.

A small pond can be a fantastic addition to your garden. Ponds are habitat for a variety of wildlife, including frogs and dragonflies. Birds are attracted to ponds as a water source. Planting native Kansas flowers around the pond can enhance its beauty and attract more wildlife.

A gently babbling stream can also be a delightful feature. You can line your stream with Kansas wildflowers and grasses to add to its beauty. If space is a concern, even a simple bird bath can benefit your garden. It provides a water source for birds and insects, and if you plant nectar-rich Kansas native flowers nearby, you'll create a mini oasis for pollinators.

Remember, any water feature should be appropriately maintained to ensure it remains a healthy part of your garden ecosystem. Regular maintenance is essential to prevent the overgrowth of algae, dirty water, and mosquitoes.

Whether you're looking to buy native plants for Kansas to complement your water feature or seeking advice on the best Kansas state plants to grow near a pond or stream, we're here to help. Check out our guide to garden water features and explore our Kansas native plants list for inspiration to create a garden that's not only beautiful but also supports local biodiversity.

The anti-lawn movement and No Mow May are initiatives that challenge traditional ideas about what a garden should look like. Instead of manicured lawns, these movements advocate for gardens filled with native plants that support local ecosystems.

The anti-lawn movement encourages homeowners to reduce the size of their lawns or replace them entirely with gardens that feature Kansas native plants. This approach enhances biodiversity and reduces the need for water, fertilizers, and gas-powered lawn mowers, making it a more sustainable choice.

No Mow May, as the name suggests, encourages people to put away their lawn mowers for the entire month of May. This simple act allows grasses and other plants to flower, providing a vital early nectar source for bees and pollinators. It's a small step with a significant impact, gaining popularity in Kansas and beyond.

In Kansas, these movements have been embraced by many residents who have transformed their lawns into vibrant, pollinator-friendly habitats. These prairie gardens, filled with Kansas wildflowers and grasses, not only support local wildlife but also create beautiful, low-maintenance landscapes that reflect the natural beauty of our state.

If you want to join the anti-lawn movement or participate in No Mow May, consider exploring our Kansas native plants list. Whether you're looking to buy native plants for Kansas or seeking advice on transforming your lawn, we can help. Remember, no matter how small, every garden can contribute to local biodiversity.

Monarch butterflies are a beloved sight in Kansas, their striking orange and black wings a sure sign of warmer weather. However, these beautiful creatures need our help. Monarch populations have declined for decades, largely due to habitat loss and pesticide use. But the good news is that you can take simple steps in your garden to support them.

Planting milkweed is one of the most effective ways to help monarch butterflies. Milkweed is the only plant on which monarchs lay their eggs, and it's the primary food source for monarch caterpillars. Adding milkweed to your garden creates a vital nursery and feeding station for these butterflies.

In addition to milkweed, consider planting various Kansas native flowers to provide nectar for adult monarchs. Plants like the purple coneflower, black eyed susan, and wild bergamot are all monarch favorites.

It's also crucial to avoid using insecticides in your garden, especially on your milkweed plants. Insecticides can be harmful or even lethal to monarchs and other beneficial insects. Instead, let your Kansas wildflowers, grasses, and other native plants do what they do best: thrive in the Kansas environment. Native wildlife such as monarchs don’t kill the native plants they feed on and rarely become pests, so insecticides aren’t needed.

By choosing to buy native plants for Kansas and creating a monarch-friendly garden, you're making a significant contribution to the conservation of these incredible creatures and the biodiversity of our state.

Sunlight is a crucial factor in gardening; we're fortunate to have plenty of it in Kansas. However, not all plants require the same amount of sunlight, and understanding your garden's light conditions can help you choose the right plants for your space.

Kansas is known for its sunny, clear skies, and many Kansas native plants have evolved to thrive in these conditions. However, not all areas of your garden may receive full sun, and that's where shade-loving plants come in. These plants are ideal for areas of your garden shaded by trees or buildings.

It's also worth noting that even sun-loving plants might need to be watered during especially hot, dry summer months. While many Kansas native flowers and grasses are drought-tolerant, they still appreciate a drink now and then.

By understanding your garden's sunlight conditions and choosing plants accordingly, you can create a beautiful, thriving garden filled with Kansas wildflowers, grasses, and other native plants. Take a look at our guide to plants and sunlight to find out more.

Drought tolerance is a valuable trait for plants in Kansas, given our state's hot, dry summers. Fortunately, many Kansas native plants have evolved to thrive in these conditions. These plants have developed various strategies to conserve water, such as deep root systems, waxy leaves, and blooming times that align with our rainfall patterns.

One such plant is the orange butterfly milkweed. This vibrant, sun-loving plant is a favorite of monarch butterflies and is well-adapted to dry, sandy soils. It's an excellent choice for a low-water garden or a sunny, drought-prone spot.

The prairie blazing star is another excellent choice. This tall, striking plant produces spikes of purple flowers that attract a variety of pollinators. It's adapted to the dry conditions of the prairie and can withstand periods of drought.

Maximilian's Sunflower, part of our Summer Songbird Plant Collection, is another Kansas native plant built to withstand dry conditions. This sunflower species is a perennial, meaning it comes back year after year, and its deep roots help it access water even when the surface is dry.

Bees play a crucial role in our ecosystems as pollinators, and attracting them to your garden can help ensure a healthy and productive landscape. Many Kansas native flowers are excellent at attracting bees. Look at our popular Spring Bee Buffet 6-Plant Collection, and start helping our bees thrive.

Don’t forget that by choosing to buy native plants for Kansas and incorporating them into your garden, you're creating a space that looks not only beautiful but also supports local wildlife. And remember, the key to a successful garden is choosing the right plants for your specific conditions. Our Kansas native plant collections offer various options to suit every garden.