Frequently Asked Questions

Chances are, if you have a question, other people are wondering about the same thing. So, we developed a list of commonly asked questions and answers. If you don't find the answers you need, please refer to the Resources section of our web site or contact us at grownative@mda.mo.gov

What is a Missouri native plant?
A plant that originated in Missouri and was not introduced. A plant that existed within Missouri state borders prior to the arrival of settlers.
Why should I use native plants?
Native plants conserve soil and water and provide the backbone for non-polluting landscapes because they don't need fertilizers or pesticides. They support a diversity of wildlife through improved habitat and reduce long-term maintenance. They are winter hardy and drought tolerant and are less prone to destructive insects and diseases.
Aren't native plants weedy?
Matching the right plants to a given set of conditions is the key to successful landscaping with native plants. In some cases, such as a 10-acre reconstructed prairie, you may want to use plants that tend to spread energetically by seed or underground rhizomes. This will help the planting become denser at a quicker rate and lower cost than non-spreading plants. However, in smaller landscape situations, it is important to select plants that don't spread but grow as distinct individual clumps so they don't invade space belonging to other plants.

Some sun loving prairie plants become "weedy" when they are grown in soil that is too fertile and rich in organic matter. Rich soil causes prairie grasses and flowers to grow too tall and fall over. For this reason, you generally don't want to amend the soil before planting sun-loving grasses and forbs. Most native plants that grow in shade, such as ferns and Celandine poppy, do benefit from additions of organic matter to the soil because they are accustomed to rich forest soils.
Why do native plants require less water than non-native plants?
Native plants have incredible root systems that support the plants in times of drought. Compared with the roots of most non-native plants, warm-season grasses and flowers have a deep, extensive root system that helps absorb moisture and prevent erosion. Many species of prairie plants have roots that extend four to eight feet into the soil, while cool-season non-native grasses, such as Kentucky blue grass and smooth brome extend only a few inches into the soil. Deep roots allow native plants to withstand long periods of dry weather and so they require little or no watering after they are established.
Do native plants attract vermin?
The answer depends on what you call vermin! Native plants attract colorful butterflies and other flying insects, such as bees, that take nectar and pollen from the flowers. Many fruit-bearing trees and shrubs attract songbirds and game birds that eat berries and fruit in the summer, fall and winter. Native plants also provide protective cover and nesting sites for a wide variety of wildlife. So yes, native plants do attract a wonderful array of wildlife that adds interest to our lives.
Where can I buy native plants?
Go to the "Buyer's Guide" section of our website for a list of business selling native plants to the public.
Does Grow Native! sell native seeds and plants?
No, Grow Native! doesn't sell any native plant product or service. Its role is to promote those who DO sell Missouri-grown native seeds, plants and related products and services. Go to the Buyer's Guide for Missouri-grown native seeds and related services for your farm conservation contract or home landscape needs.
What is a Private Land Conservationist?
The Private Land Services Division of the Missouri Department of Conservation employs a dedicated staff of resource professionals called Private Land Conservationsts or PLCs. PLCs work with private landowners to improve forest, fish and wildlife conditions on their property. The mission of this division is to help Missouri landowners achieve their land use objectives in ways that enhance the conservation of Missouri's natural resources. PLCs provide personal one-on-one service to landowners and are a valuable asset to private land managers. Find out more about services available.