Master Gardeners of Northern Virginia
Over 40 Years of Growing Gardens and Gardeners
Tried and True Native Plant Selections for the Mid-Atlantic
This slow-growing, but long-lived, large tree is indigenous to river banks and flood plains and makes an attractive ornamental specimen for large landscapes with good fall color, distinctive exfoliating bark, and edible nuts. It also supports a variety of wildlife.
Our newest resource covers gardening techniques with a focus on gardens with native plants. Find information on tasks appropriate to the winter season and learn about year-long practices to encourage and support local wildlife.
Tried and True Native Plant Selections for the Mid-Atlantic
Once the dominant species of the North American tallgrass prairie, this native warm-season grass is noted for the open, airy appearance of its seed heads and the multi-season interest of its foliage. Many ornamental cultivars are available.
The 2023 USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map, released in November 2023, was the first update since 2012. Not surprisingly, the new map reflects warming temperatures.
Tried and True Native Plant Selections for the Mid-Atlantic
This native tree of northeastern and north central North America can be long-lived; some Canadian specimens could be over 1,000 years old. The common name, “tree of life,” refers to the medicinal properties of the bark and foliage, which cured scurvy.
In 2018, mgnv.org published “Five Things You Didn’t Know . . . About The History of Master Gardeners.” This article is a follow up to answer questions and clear up common misconceptions as Virginia Master Gardeners celebrate their 45th anniversary in 2024.
