Planting native plants isn’t just about creating a beautiful backyard—it’s about building a better ecosystem. Montana’s native plants support local wildlife, require less water and maintenance, and are naturally adapted to Montana’s unique climate.
We love our state, so we forgive it for its dramatic temperature swings and dry spells. And so do native plants! Here’s your guide to creating a Montana native garden that’ll thrive!
Why Native Plants Matter in Montana
Montana’s Native plants are built to survive. These resilient species have adapted over time to thrive in our northern climate, including long winters, hot dry summers, and diverse elevations. By choosing native plants, you’re supporting local pollinators (e.g. bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds) and helping to maintain biodiversity in the Bozeman area and beyond.
They also require significantly less water and fertilizer, making them a sustainable choice for homeowners like you, who want a beautiful yard without constant upkeep. Plus, these plants provide essential habitat and food for native wildlife! Whether you live in the Gallatin Valley or up in the hills, gardening in Montana is easier (and more impactful) when you work with nature – not against it.
Choosing the Right Native Plants for Your Yard in Montana
There’s a native plant for nearly every spot in your yard—whether it’s sunny, shady, dry, or damp. Some of our favorite low-maintenance picks for Montana gardens include:
- Blanketflower (Gaillardia)
- Yarrow
- Prairie Coneflower
- Rocky Mountain Penstemon
Need inspiration? Check out our top 10 favorite garden flowers! Many of them are native or well-adapted to Montana conditions.
Before planting, assess your yard: how much sun does each section get? Is your soil sandy, clay-like, or loamy? Owenhouse Ace carries soil mixes, compost, and tools to help you get started right. Don’t forget to explore the Plant Something Montana database for even more native plant recommendations.
How to Prep Your Montana Garden for Planting
Timing is key when gardening in Montana. Since spring tends to arrive late, it’s usually best to wait until the danger of frost has passed—typically late May or early June—before planting. Timing may be even more critical now and in the future, as the USDA’s Plant Hardiness Zone Map keeps shifting slightly as weather patterns and heat indexes have been increasing. This is one more reason to lean into the native plant trend!
Source: U.S. Department of Agriculture
Start by prepping your soil. Get out your favorite tool to loosen it up! Tillers, shovels, maybe a pitchfork. After it’s nice and fluffy you can mix in compost and fertilizer. Raised beds are also a great option in Montana gardens, helping to warm the soil faster and improve drainage. You’ll find compost, tools, and more at our garden center at Owenhouse Ace West.
If you’re starting from seed, our guide on how to start seeds indoors in Montana is a great place to begin. It’s a helpful way to get a jump on the short growing season.
Tips for Long-Term Success
Once your plants are in the ground, mulching is your best friend. A good layer of mulch helps retain moisture in Montana’s dry climate and suppresses weeds. Plus, it keeps roots cooler during hot summer days.
Spacing is also important! Give your plants room to grow and breathe. Be sure to follow the instructions on the seed packet or plant tag for the best results. Native plants are generally low maintenance, but regular watering (especially at the start) is essential. A drip irrigation system is a great way to make watering easier and more efficient.
From mulch to garden gloves, Owenhouse has everything you need to keep your garden growing strong!
Essential Gardening Tools
Start Your Native Garden with Confidence
There’s nothing quite like the joy of growing your own native garden. Whether you’re planting wildflowers, hardy shrubs, or edible perennials, you’ll be building a landscape that’s both beautiful and beneficial.
Visit us to get everything you need! From soil to seeds, our team is happy to help you choose the right plants and tools for your space. Let’s make Montana even more beautiful, one garden at a time.
