The University of Wyoming Extension has released two free online resources for Wyoming gardeners interested in growing native plants.
These companion publications offer an introduction to the types of native plants that grow well in Wyoming, considerations to keep in mind when selecting plants, and the steps required to successfully start seeds at home.
The publications are designed as resources for both those who are new to gardening in Wyoming and long-time residents interested in modifying an established landscape.
Author Jennifer Thompson, who serves as a horticulture specialist for UW Extension, has raised native plants in Wyoming for nearly two decades. She encourages fellow Wyomingites to experiment with native plants in their own gardens and backyards.
“Plants native to our region can be used successfully in Wyoming landscapes—whether one is interested in having a tidy group of landscape beds, a free-flowing naturalistic planting, or something in between,” she comments.
The first publication, titled “Native Plants for Wyoming Landscapes: Herbaceous Perennials,” provides tips on plant selection as well as detailed descriptions and photos of 40 native wildflowers suitable for Wyoming conditions.
The descriptions are designed to help readers envision how different options might fit into their landscapes and the potential pros and cons of each, including whether the plant is commonly available in nurseries. To view the publication, visit https://bit.ly/wy-herb-perennials.
Especially for plants that aren’t readily available in most nurseries, Wyoming gardeners may be interested in germinating their own seeds at home. The second publication, “Growing Wyoming Native Plants from Seed at Home,” provides practical advice on pre-treatment methods like scarification and stratification as well as tips on planting and potting seedlings, both indoors and outdoors.
To access the publication, visit https://bit.ly/wy-native-seeds.
“Growing native plants from seed is a learning experience,” Thompson observes. “Take notes on what does or doesn’t work for you, learn from your mistakes, and share them and your successes with others…If you keep at it, you will soon have a yard full of native plants you can enjoy for years to come.”
For more information on growing native plants in Wyoming, email planthelp@uwyo.edu or contact a local UW Extension office. Contact information can be found at https://bit.ly/uwe-counties.
