Why Go Native?
By Julie Olson

As our urban centers develop and thrive, our native prairie habitats are rapidly disappearing. A native landscape provides the needed food and cover that animals require. Native plants have adapted to local conditions and therefore will stand a much better chance of survival.

More often, homeowners are opting to install native landscapes into their own yards to help preserve the natural ecosystem, which is not only good for our region, but the entire planet benefits as well. Native landscapes directly help the birds, beeds and butterflies to thrive and the landscape is generally low maintenance, hardy, attractive, and drought tolerant.

All Seasons Garden Center carries many native species as well as non-invasive non-natives, both bred to withstand our local weather conditions. Ask a consultant for our list of recommended native plants, or have one of our designers create a natural habitat in your own yard.

There are many elements of interest when thinking about landscaping. What do you want your landscape to do for you? Is it for functionality, aesthetics, or a combination of both?

Keep in mind:

• Fountains, statues, bird baths
• Lighting
• Irrigation systems
• Ponds, waterfalls or other water elements
• Landscape rock, boulders, lava rock, flagstone
• Xeriscape: the development of a landscape that uses plants that are compatible with the environment, which are hardy and have low water requirements and are drought resistent
• Privacy areas and play areas for children and pets
• Plantings for continuous bloom spring through fall
• Incorporating annuals in your flower beds
• Routine maintenance of your new beautiful landscape

Let us draw you a landscape plan based on your interests and landscaping expectations. Our landscape staff at All Seasons is also available to provide many services such as shrub and tree trimming, plant maintenence, holiday decorating and much more!

Fountains and Statuary are wonderful additions to your landscape project and All Seasons has many in stock!

Here are some tips on how to care for your fountains and ornaments:

Little needs to be done to your concrete fountain or statuary. Inevitable aging and weathering of natural stone will occur. Many people find this appealing, however you can slow down this process with the application of a clear concrete sealer.

Depending upon temperature and evaporation, there may be a buildup of white residue on the surface of the bowl or shell of your fountain or bird bath. This is normal and unavoidable in the North Dakota area. Frequent rinsing and changing of the water will minimize this, however to safely and easily remove this clean with a mild detergent and a soft-bristled brush.