Native planting:

What to expect - "Sleep, Creep, Leap"

Building a native habitat takes patience, but the rewards are worth it!
Here's How your native plants will grow over three years:

Year 1: Sleep

Most of the actions is happening underground.
Plants are busy growing deep, resilient root systems.


Not much to see... YET!

Add colorful annuals to brighten the space and support pollinators while native get established.

Year 2: Creep

Plants begin spreading out slowly. You’ll see more greenery and the first few blooms. The garden starts to look fuller—but it’s still early days.


Keep watering and weeding to support young plants.

Year 3: Leap

Get ready for a transformation! Plants grow vigorously and bloom abundantly. Wildlife thrives, and your luscious lawn begins to look wild and wonderful.

This is when your native habitat really shines!

Native Plant Stars for Your Habitat Garden

Easy to grow, beautiful to see, and vital for pollinators!

Milkweed

(Asclepias spp.)

  • The exclusive host plant for monarch butterfly caterpillars


  • Drought-tolerant and low- maintenace once established

Purple Cornflower

(Echinacea purpurea)

  • Striking purple blooms from summer to fall


  • Loved by bees, butterflies, and goldfinches (they are seed!


  • Strong, upright stems and long bloom period

New England Aster

(Symphyotrichum novae-angliae)

  • Late-season bloomer- a crucial nectar source in fall


  • Vibrant purple petals with sunny yellow centers


  • Attracts migrating monarchs and natives bees

Blazing Star

(Liatris spicata or Liatris aspera)

  • Draws in butterflies like magnets


  • Provides dramatic vertical texture in the garden


  • Great for well-drained or dry soils

Goldenrod

(Solidago spp.)

  • A pollinator powerhouse-late season nectar for bees and butterflies


  • Adds a cheerful splash of gold in late summer and fall

The Vermillion County Soil & Water Conservation District

SWCD can be a tremendous resource for homeowners looking to replace their lawn with a native habitat. Here’s a breakdown of the types of services we can typically offer for such projects.

Technical Assistance

• Site Evaluation & Selection
• Planting Recommendations
• Planting Plan Development

Cost-Share & Funding Programs

• Assistance Identifying Eligible Programs: We can help landowners tap into federal, state, or local incentive programs.
These can help cover costs for...

  • Site prep
  • Native seeds or plugs
  • Weed control
  • Installation labor


Equipment Loans

• Seed Drill Rentals: We can loan out our no-till seed drills or specialized native seed equipment.

Recommendations for Site Prep &

• Spray Guidance
• Weed Management

Let your lawn go wild. Plant with purpose.