Ted Shoemaker wrote:
I have recently read a little about natural landscaping -- that is,
using indigenous plants. There are plenty of benefits.

If someone here could help me with a problem, I would appreciate it:
As far as I can tell, none of the local indigenous plants makes a
sturdy lawn.

I live in Madison, Wisconsin. The native plants here include
prairie grasses, wildflowers, and deciduous trees.

When you step on turf grass, it springs back immediately. You can't
do that with prairie grasses and wildflowers. To the contrary, we see
signs that say things like "Stay on the trail! The wild plants are
fragile!"

What would you recommend for a natural lawn in Madison, Wisconsin?


What you plant depends on how you use your lawn. Is it a playground for
the kids? Is it a shortcut that's constantly walked over? Is it space
between flower beds? Is a window facing it the focal point of a room? Or
is it just a large open space that does nothing?

If all you want is a big open space that looks like a "lawn", then stick
with turf grass. Otherwise, what you plant depends on how you want your
"lawn" to function.

--
Warren H.

==========
Disclaimer: My views reflect those of myself, and not my
employer, my friends, nor (as she often tells me) my wife.
Any resemblance to the views of anybody living or dead is
coincidental. No animals were hurt in the writing of this
response -- unless you count my dog who desperately wants
to go outside now.
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