Natural Gardening with City Codes and HOA’s

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Establishing a Native Garden: A Management Plan is Key

Transitioning from a traditional lawn to a thriving native garden can be one of the most rewarding choices you make for your landscape—and for local ecology. But as any seasoned gardener (or HOA board member) will tell you, the success of a native planting lies in the management plan, especially during those crucial first few years.

Recently, Benjamin Vogt—renowned native gardening advocate and author of Prairie Up—hosted a presentation on “Natural Gardening with City Codes and HOAs.” His message was clear: with the right plan and communication, you can create a garden that meets community standards and supports pollinators, soil health, and long-term resilience.

We couldn’t agree more—and the maintenance chart he shared (featured above) is one of the most practical visual tools we’ve seen for explaining what the establishment years really look like.

Year 0–1: Prepare, Observe, and Protect

Your first year is all about preparation and patience.
This is when your young native plants are building deep roots—not instant blooms. Expect to:

  • Deadhead tall weeds to prevent reseeding.

  • Remove invasive species early before they establish dominance.

  • Keep soil moisture stable for about a month post-installation.

  • Replace any struggling plants in fall if you installed in spring.

At this stage, your garden might look a little “messy.” That’s normal. It’s working hard below the surface, and your main job is to keep it weed-free and hydrated while it gets established.

Year 2: Strengthen and Shape

By the second year, plants begin to fill in and compete naturally with weeds. Now is the time to:

  • Cut down growth 3–4 weeks before the last frost date.

  • Treat tree seedlings that may have snuck in.

  • Evaluate what’s thriving—and what’s not.
    You may choose to replace or add new species to fine-tune your design and density.

If you’re working with an HOA, this is a great time to share progress photos and update your neighbors or landscape committee. Seeing the transformation helps build trust and understanding.

Year 3: Balance and Beauty

By year three, your native planting is beginning to act like a true ecosystem. Plants are self-sustaining, and wildlife activity increases dramatically. Maintenance now becomes refinement:

  • Cut down plants in late winter or early spring to encourage regrowth.

  • Remove tall or floppy species that crowd others.

  • Replace or add plants where diversity could strengthen resilience or aesthetics.

This is also when the real payoff begins—less watering, fewer weeds, and a landscape that’s both ecological and beautiful.

A Note for HOA or City-Regulated Areas

Native gardens don’t have to look wild or unkempt. Clear borders, mowed edges, and intentional plant groupings go a long way toward conveying that your garden is designed—not neglected. Share your management plan (like the one above) with your HOA or local code officials. When people understand the process, they’re far more likely to support the vision.

Carolina Native Nursery’s Takeaway

Whether you’re a homeowner, HOA member, or landscape professional, establishing a native garden takes time—but it’s worth every season of effort. A clear maintenance plan ensures your planting not only thrives ecologically but also wins aesthetic approval from your community.

If you’re ready to begin your native garden journey—or guide your neighborhood toward one—Carolina Native Nursery can help you select regionally appropriate plants, create a phased plan, and connect you with resources to make the transition smooth and successful.

Learn more about Benjamin Vogt’s work and his book “Prairie Up” at prairieup.com.
And visit us at carolinanativenursery.com for guidance, plants, and inspiration to start your native garden the right way—from year zero and beyond.

About Murphy Funkhouser