Planting and Establishment Process
Special Notes on Native Plants
Most native plants are grown from seed at the beginning of each year and are typically sold in small containers—often quarts or plugs—packaged in trays of 6, 18, or more. Unlike nursery-grown ornamentals, they’re not bred for instant impact; in fact, some may not flower in their first year or two. But with time and the right growing conditions, they establish quickly and flourish.
Availability
Timing is important. Native plant availability depends on each grower’s cycle. When we began planting in April 2025, it was still too early—most nurseries didn’t yet have their native inventory in stock. By late April and early May, we were able to secure most of the species we needed.
Even commonly used natives can be hard to find in some years, so flexibility is essential. Be prepared to accept substitutions, and when possible, coordinate early with growers or specialty nurseries to increase your options.
Plant Sizes Used in the Little Prairie
We used a mix of plant sizes, guided by both availability and placement within the site. Larger specimens were chosen for high-visibility areas, while smaller plugs and seeds were used in zones where we could afford to be more patient.
Larger Sizes at the Street Front
Toward the back of the garden, where we could be more patient, we used smaller plugs and even seeded native grasses. These areas will take longer to fill in, but they’re more forgiving of a slow start and ultimately just as resilient once established.
The wooden edge begins to soften as the bee balm, anise hyssop, and the grasses fill in.
The seeded grasses in the middle required the most patience to fill in.
By early July, the bee balm and anise hyssop were in full bloom.
By Fall, the garden was still full of color. The sumac leaves shine reddish orange.
Allowing the plants to remain in the fall added a beautiful visual interest during the winter. A coat of frost and fresh snow covers the dormant plants.
The hyssop, specifically, keeps its seed heads which not only look nice, but also serve as a food source for wildlife.
The following Spring, the native plants emerged from dormancy. Grasses, like little bluestem, finally started to get bigger.
The Little Prairie’s second summer around was overflowing with growth. Importantly, the grasses in the middle filled the space, and this front yard oasis continues to be a place for play and community.
The Little Prairie Across the Seasons
2 Understanding the Site
3 Revealing the Flow of Rain
4 Designing with Repurposed Materials
5 How It All Came Together
6 Tasty Natives We Love
7 Planting and Establishment Process
8 What It All Cost
9 Lessons Learned
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Saint Paul, MN