Home Garden

Western Nebraska Planting Guide

Western Nebraska is a place with weather extremes--hot, dry summers and cold, snowy winters. Successfully landscaping with plants in this region requires homeowners to work with nature by choosing the right plants. Native species are often an excellent choice.
  1. Types

    • The serviceberry is a small flowering tree that is ideal for western Nebraska. Homeowners who desire a slightly larger specimen may want to choose the American yellowwood, which was the Nebraska State Arboretum tree of the year for 2010. Flowers that perform well in this region include black-eyed Susan, prickly pear, Mexican hat and prairie coneflower.

    Time Frame

    • Plants and trees should be planted in the spring when the danger of frost has passed. They also can be planted in the fall. Newly planted perennials should have mulch placed around them before the winter weather hits.

    Benefits

    • Homeowners on the windy plains also may consider planting a windbreak. The eastern red cedar is a great windbreak tree that will protect a house from the wind and snowdrifts. The eastern red cedar is a hardy native tree that excels in this region.