Grasslands and meadows support a vibrant palette of wildflowers and provide rich habitat. Many species thrive in slow-draining soils and need little water, making them a beautiful and resilient choice for open spaces.
Grasslands and meadows
Tips for grasslands and meadows gardening
Make sure to weed your area well before planting
Irrigate with overhead or buried irrigation, and in late summer and early fall, stop irrigation, mimicking nature's dry season.
Establish grasses first; in subsequent years, add wildflowers and small perennials.
Keystone species for grasslands and meadows
Grasslands and meadows health depends on the presence of certain “keystone” plant and animal species. Using these native plants strengthens the ecosystem, as does providing the habitat needed by these birds and other animals.
Keystone plant species
- Canyon live oak (Quercus chrysolepis) tree supports a wealth of interacting life forms. A huge total of 270 species of butterflies and moths can lay eggs on this tree.
- Coast live oak (Quercus agrifolia) is a resilient oak thrives in coastal areas. It hosts over 270 species of butterflies and moth and feeds many birds and mammals with its acorns.
- West coast Canada goldenrod (Solidago elongata) hosts 53 species of butterflies and moths and feeds 27 species of pollen specialist bees.
Learn more about grasslands and meadows
Ecosystems of California: Grasslands, YouTube by Prof. Erika Zavaleta, UC Santa Cruz
