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converting pachysandra and ivy to native gardens #764663

Asked July 29, 2021, 3:41 PM EDT

Hello Master Gardeners, I just moved to Ohio in spring. This summer i am trying to rid the yard of several spreading vines and pachysandra to make room for a native plant landscape that supports pollinators, butterflies, and birds. So far, I am pulling out the undesirables and sheet mulching. I have some ideas on ferns and other native plants for zone 5, and would love to speak to a master gardener regarding how successful my ideas will be in practice. I am from Alaska so am not very familiar with Ohio native landscaping though I have tried to google quite a bit. If possible, I would love to have a master gardener walk my shade and partial sun yard here in Stow. Thanks for your time and thoughts. -Lori

Summit County Ohio

Expert Response

Hi Lori,

Welcome to Ohio! It's always so great to meet gardeners who know the value of native plants and want to use them in their yards. 

I imagine you found a lot of great information online, but here are several good sites we use often:

https://plantpath.osu.edu/nativeplants

https://woodlandstewards.osu.edu/sites/woodlands/files/imce/0013.pdf

https://www.ohionativeplantmonth.org/native-plant-list

Because you just moved here, I'm sure it would be valuable for you to talk with other gardeners who are experienced in your specific location. I suggest that you contact the Extension Office in Summit County at https://summit.osu.edu/ and ask to talk with their Extension Educator or Master Gardener Volunteer Coordinator. Your online question was referred to me, but I live in the southwest part of the state in zone 6a, so I really think it would be best for you to be able to consult with someone who lives and gardens in your area. 

Finally, I'll bet that you are already familiar with the writings of Doug Tallamy, but if not, I would recommend checking out his books on working with native plants, especially Bringing Nature Home. He also has a website at https://homegrownnationalpark.org/ with information about restoring biodiversity, one yard at a time.

If you are not able to get answers from Summit County, please write back with more questions, and we'll be happy to try to help!

Best,

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