We had hundreds of stunning entries in this year’s contest! By submitting their photos, these photographers are helping Wild Ones further its mission. Wild Ones uses contest images in publications, promotional materials, presentations, and on our websites to inspire others to learn about native plants and natural landscaping. We were proud to have the 2025 […] Continue reading "2025 Photo Contest Results"
Autumn is the time to plant bulbs, and rather than planting tulips, daffodils, and crocuses, consider planting native bulbs. Continue reading "Native Bulbs for a Spring Surprise"
Fallen leaves are nature’s mulch, not mess. Learn simple ways to keep them in place, protect overwintering insects, and build healthier soil. Leaving the leaves supports pollinators, improves moisture retention, and enriches your garden’s ecosystem. Continue reading "Lessons With the Leaves"
Climate change is reshaping our landscapes and threatening the plants and wildlife we depend on. Nearly half of U.S. bird species may be imperiled by century’s end, and biodiversity loss is accelerating. But there is hope: diverse, native plantings can build resilience, sustain pollinators and birds, and help mitigate the effects of a shifting climate. Continue reading "Dealing with Climate Change in Our Landscapes"
She was a mother, a friend, a gardener, and an environmentalist. But for those early Wild Ones members nearly 50 years ago, she was an inspiration. Continue reading "Lorrie Otto: Godmother of Natural Landscaping "
Lindy Smith is an Iowa-based photographer who blends art and ecology, using 19th-century photographic techniques and sunlight to create haunting images of native plants. Her latest book, Leaves and Light: Sunprints of American Native Plants (Prospecta Press, Sept. 2025), captures the beauty and conservation value of plants from the Eastern Woodlands, Prairies and Grasslands, and California. Continue reading "Q&A with Photographer Lindy Smith"
Native sunflower species vary widely in height, bloom time, and habitat, and they play a critical role in supporting pollinators, birds, and other wildlife. Their diversity and ecological value make them an essential addition to native gardens. Continue reading "8 Native Sunflowers That Support Pollinators and Birds"
Rita Venable, Middle Tennessee Wild Ones member and author of Butterflies of Tennessee, blends humor and science to inspire native gardening. From field adventures to mentoring the next generation, she champions approachable, entertaining ways to connect people with butterflies and native plan. Continue reading "Rita Venable’s Path from Wildlife to Wild Ones"
Looking to add color to your native plant garden while supporting pollinators? Blue-flowering native plants are a striking choice that provide essential food sources from spring through fall. Whether you’re planting in sun or shade, dry or moist soil, there’s a native blue bloom for every garden. Continue reading "7 Native Blue Flowers for Every Garden"
Let's explore the science and practicality behind native pollinator lawns, with insights drawn from research and best practices across North America. Continue reading "What is a Pollinator Lawn?"
With a donation of $100 or more, you’ll receive a limited-edition Wild Ones T-shirt as our way of saying thank you!