Grow a Wild Back Yard

A native plant is one that has traditionally existed in our region without introduction from another area. Native plants are critical to the wildlife that call Ohio home – they’ve evolved together to exist. Choosing a native plant over a non-native species makes a big impact on our ecosystem! 

Find suggestions for swapping in native plants in our Guide to Common Invasive Plants  

Check whether your plant is native on the USDA Plants Database

Invasive plants are all around us. They can crowd out beneficial native plants, so are best removed (or not planted in the first place). Use our tools to identify and manage invasive plants:

Guide to Common Invasive Plants

USDA Plants Database

Create an Invasive Plant Management Plan

Your yard is your escape, but it’s also a home for many other living creatures! Consider inviting wildlife into your yard with small adjustments to help them thrive. Here are resources to help you get started:
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Bird collision reduction  
 
Reduce pesticides/fertilizers  
 
Switch to bug bulbs
 
Provide rare species assistance to SMP

See our program form for the full list of ways to improve habitat quality!

Traditional lawn practices are not always ecologically friendly. Wild Back Yards participants are invited to reduce their ecological footprint using several tactics outlined on the program form.
 
Consider these ideas:

Reduce lawn area  
 
Install a rain barrel  
 
Install a rain garden
 
Use ecologically friendly de-icers
 
Use natural soil amendments  
 
Install soaker hose or drip line for garden irrigation  
 
Employ responsible pharmaceutical disposal
 
Use integrated pest management
 
Compost yard waste and kitchen scraps  
 
Properly dispose of household chemicals
 
Discontinue tillage
 
Position tree/shrub plantings to optimize heating/cooling efficiency  
 
Upcycle materials for yard features
 
Prevent erosion on property  
 
Reduce impervious surface area  
 
See our program form for the full list of ways to improve your ecological footprint!