Small spaces make a big difference
Backyard tips and solutions
Native plants are the perfect backyard landscape option and have a huge impact on water and soil health as well as local pollinators. Many native plants are host plants for certain bees, butterflies or other insects, meaning many important actors in local ecosystems could not survive without those plants. The right plants understand the environment they’re grown in and contribute to making it healthier and more sustainable.
What is a native plant?
Our native plants are indigenous to the upper Midwest and occur naturally in our ecosystems. These species attract native pollinators, birds and other wildlife. They filter nutrients from water which restores the soil while adding a new complex, beautiful component to your yard. Native plants live, thrive and work where they’re supposed to – they’re from here and they know their way around.
New to native plants? No problem!
We have pre-designed plant kits and seed mixes that are created to turn your property into a powerhouse for healing the earth. Shop by your existing growing conditions, such as sun or shade and soil moisture. Its as easy as that!
For our seasoned native gardeners
As an experienced native gardener, you may already have an idea of what you’re looking for in your backyard habitat. We’ve created filter tools to help you find the species you need or create your perfect garden. Grab direct access to those areas of our retail shop, below.
Backyard resources and how tos
Project Planning – How-to Seed and Plant your project
We know getting started can be the hardest part! MNL’s team has put together this short video with advice for preparing, planting, and beyond.
Expectations after prairie seeding
We know it’s hard to wait and see if the investment of your time, energy, and seed costs pay off in the form of a beautiful diverse prairie planting, but we’re here to explain how long you should wait for your prairie to mature!
Spring Maintenance
Native plants are hardy and easy to care for. After planting and establishment, consider a simple spring maintenance routine to maintain biodiversity in your planting project in a wildlife-friendly way!
One of the trickiest parts of starting a pollinator planting is ordering the right number of plants. Use our plant calculator tool to help you determine how many plants you need to complete your project.