Native Gardens
The native gardens and habitats around Lakeside Nature Center are a vital part of our mission to promote, conserve and educate people about native Missouri plants.
This is an exciting time for native gardens at the Nature Center. We are in the third year of redesigning, replanting and adding gardens around the building.
Enjoy these unique areas year-round, from dawn to dusk.
Sun Gardens
These two gardens feature plants that thrive in full sun and can tolerate dry soil.
Rain Gardens
Replanted in 2024, these plants tolerate and even thrive in full sun and soil that is often wet.
Shade Garden
Featuring native Missouri plants that thrive in full to partial shade and can tolerate dry soil.
Pollinator Garden
The pollinator garden is devoted to plants that attract butterflies, moths, insects, birds, bees and bats.
Native Garden Volunteer Events
Volunteers meet monthly to remove invasive species, maintain/improve the native gardens and share knowledge of native gardening.
View all native garden volunteer events for the season.
If you are interested in volunteering or would like to bring a group for a volunteer event, please fill out an inquiry form.
Benefits of Native Gardens
Adapted to this area
Native plants are adapted to the local climate, soil, and pests, so they require less maintenance than non-native plants. They also naturally resist local pests and diseases, so your garden will be healthier and more sustainable.
Low maintenance
Native plants are perennials, meaning they come back year after year. They also have deep roots, so they are drought tolerant, and hardier than other plants.
Habitat for wildlife
Native plants provide food and shelter for birds, pollinators, and small animals.
Climate resilience
Native plants provide a buffer for wildlife against food shortages and environmental disruptions.
