--- title: How to Choose the Right Native Plants for Sustainable Landscaping in Massachusetts description: Low-maintenance native plants are a core component of sustainable landscaping, offering beauty, resilience and a connection to local ecosystems image: https://www.moodscapesdesign.com/hubfs/P8070206-1.jpg --- [781.488.3200](tel:781.488.3200) - [**](https://www.facebook.com/Moodscapes/) - [**](https://www.instagram.com/moodscapes/) - [**](https://twitter.com/MoodscapesLLC) - [**](https://www.linkedin.com/company/moodscapes-llc/) - [**](https://www.pinterest.com/moodscapes/) [![moodscapes](https://www.moodscapesdesign.com/hs-fs/hubfs/moodscapes-theme-2017/images/logo.png?width=252&height=88&name=logo.png "moodscapes")](https://www.moodscapesdesign.com) [ Schedule Consultation ](https://www.moodscapesdesign.com/landscape-consultation-free-15-minute-call) - Services - [Landscape Design & Build](https://www.moodscapesdesign.com/landscape-design-services) - [Ecological Landscape Maintenance & Gardening](https://www.moodscapesdesign.com/ecological-landscape-maintenance-gardening) - [Schedule Consultation](https://www.moodscapesdesign.com/landscape-consultation-free-15-minute-call) - Towns We Serve - [Arlington](https://www.moodscapesdesign.com/arlington-ma) - [Belmont](https://www.moodscapesdesign.com/belmont-ma) - [Lexington](https://www.moodscapesdesign.com/lexington-ma) - [Newton](https://www.moodscapesdesign.com/newton-ma) - [Watertown](https://www.moodscapesdesign.com/watertown-ma) - [Winchester](https://www.moodscapesdesign.com/winchester-ma) - [Portfolio](https://www.moodscapesdesign.com/landscape-design-portfolio) - [Backyard Entertainment Areas](https://www.moodscapesdesign.com/backyard-entertainment-areas) - [Backyard Oasis](https://www.moodscapesdesign.com/backyard-oasis-landscape-design) - [Contemplation Areas](https://www.moodscapesdesign.com/contemplation-area-landscape-design) - [Fall Landscapes](https://www.moodscapesdesign.com/fall-landscape-design-examples) - [Hardscapes](https://www.moodscapesdesign.com/hardscapes-landscape-design) - [Strolling Gardens](https://www.moodscapesdesign.com/strolling-gardens-landscape-designs) - [Terraced Landscapes](https://www.moodscapesdesign.com/terraced-landscapes) - [Texture and Color Gardens](https://www.moodscapesdesign.com/texture-and-color-gardens) - [Water Features](https://www.moodscapesdesign.com/water-feature-landscape-designs) - [Welcoming Front Yard](https://www.moodscapesdesign.com/welcoming-front-yard-design-examples) - [Woodland Garden](https://www.moodscapesdesign.com/woodland-gardens-landscape-design-examples) - [Testimonials](https://www.moodscapesdesign.com/testimonials) - [Contact](https://www.moodscapesdesign.com/contact) - Resources - [Blog](https://www.moodscapesdesign.com/blog) - [8 Essential Elements of a Spectacular Outdoor Living Space](https://www.moodscapesdesign.com/essential-elements-of-a-spectacular-outdoor-living-space-youll-want-to-spend-all-day-in) - [How to Maintain Your Landscape and Transform It Into a Beauty You’ll Love](https://www.moodscapesdesign.com/how-to-maintain-your-landscape-and-transform-it-into-a-beauty-youll-love) - [10 Common Gardening Mistakes that Hurt the Environment](https://www.moodscapesdesign.com/common-gardening-mistakes-that-hurt-environment) - [13 Insider Tips to Creating a Beautiful Contemplation Garden](https://www.moodscapesdesign.com/insider-tips-for-beautiful-contemplation-garden) - [Questions to Think About Before a Landscape Consultation](https://www.moodscapesdesign.com/questions-to-think-about) [Landscape Design](https://www.moodscapesdesign.com/blog/topic/landscape-design) | 3 min read September 2025 | [Zach Rubin](https://www.moodscapesdesign.com/blog/author/zach-rubin) # How to Choose the Right Native Plants for Sustainable Landscaping in Massachusetts ![How to Choose the Right Native Plants for Sustainable Landscaping in Massachusetts](https://www.moodscapesdesign.com/hubfs/P8070206-1.jpg) Creating a thriving, beautiful landscape can feel like a puzzle — especially when it comes to choosing the right plant species for your local environment. Many homeowners want gardens that are healthy, low-maintenance, and [supportive of local wildlife and biodiversity](https://www.moodscapesdesign.com/blog/pollinator-friendly-plants-for-a-vibrant-massachusetts-garden), but the sheer number of options — non-native plants, invasive plants and ornamental species — can be overwhelming. Native plants are the natural choice for sustainable landscaping, offering beauty, resilience and a connection to local ecosystems without demanding constant care or excessive resources. ## The Benefits of Native Plants in the Landscape Design Process Native plants are naturally adapted to the unique Massachusetts climate including cold winters, warm summers and seasonal fluctuations in rainfall. Their deep root systems help them withstand occasional drought, improve soil health and reduce runoff, which benefits water quality in nearby streams and ponds. By planting species suited to local soil and soil conditions, you reduce reliance on pesticides, extra watering and other interventions, supporting a sustainable gardening approach. ![soil-is-everything-when-sustainable-landscaping-1](https://www.moodscapesdesign.com/hs-fs/hubfs/blog/soil-is-everything-when-sustainable-landscaping-1.png?width=1000&height=667&name=soil-is-everything-when-sustainable-landscaping-1.png) These plants also attract pollinators and other beneficial insects, creating a thriving ecosystem in your outdoor space. [Native trees, shrubs and perennials](https://www.moodscapesdesign.com/blog/the-must-have-native-plants-for-a-stunning-garden-design-in-massachusetts) provide shelter and food for birds and wildlife, enhancing biodiversity while keeping maintenance manageable. Unlike non-native species, which may struggle in Massachusetts’ seasonal extremes or spread uncontrollably, native species work in harmony with the local environment, protecting natural resources and making native landscaping a practical, long-term solution. ## Common Challenges When Choosing Native Plants Even with the clear benefits of native plants and sustainable landscaping, many homeowners find the process daunting. One of the biggest hurdles is simply knowing which plant species will thrive in their area. Local soil can vary widely in texture, nutrients and drainage, and understanding these soil conditions is essential to choosing plants that will succeed without heavy intervention. Sun and shade patterns can also complicate decisions. A sunny planting bed may support certain perennials or native shrubs, while shaded areas might need species that tolerate lower light. Misjudging these conditions can lead to plants struggling or even failing, which often frustrates homeowners and discourages sustainable practices. ![P8041635-1-1](https://www.moodscapesdesign.com/hs-fs/hubfs/song/P8041635-1-1.jpg?width=1000&height=750&name=P8041635-1-1.jpg) Another common challenge is visualizing how native landscaping will look across the seasons. Massachusetts gardens change dramatically from spring to winter, and many homeowners worry about creating a landscape that is both beautiful and functional year-round. Combining trees, shrubs, ground covers and perennials in a cohesive plan requires foresight, especially if your goal is to minimize maintenance. Lastly, there’s the temptation to use non-native species. These plants may initially look appealing, but they often require more water, fertilizers or pesticides. In some cases, they can even become invasive plants, threatening local ecosystems. The key to overcoming these challenges is education, planning and a careful approach to selecting the right plant species for your local environment. ## How to Approach the Native Plant Selection Process [Creating a successful native landscaping plan ](https://www.moodscapesdesign.com/blog/how-the-landscape-design-process-can-transform-a-tired-yard-into-a-welcoming-outdoor-space)starts with a thoughtful landscaping design. Begin with a site analysis. Observe your outdoor space closely, noting sunlight exposure, drainage and soil type. Understanding local soil conditions and the natural flow of water in your yard will guide you toward drought-tolerant plants with deep root systems that thrive while supporting soil health and water conservation. Once you understand the conditions of your site, it’s time to define your design elements. Think about where you want focal points, planting beds and ground covers, and consider how native trees and shrubs can create structure, shade and seasonal interest. ![P8051708-1](https://www.moodscapesdesign.com/hs-fs/hubfs/song/P8051708-1.jpg?width=1000&height=750&name=P8051708-1.jpg) When selecting plants, aim for a mix of perennials and shrubs that bloom at different times, encouraging biodiversity and providing food and shelter for pollinators and beneficial insects. Functionality is just as important as aesthetics. Walkways, driveways and open areas for recreation should flow naturally through the landscape while integrating with native species. Choosing the right plant species for each area ensures your yard is not only beautiful, but also low-maintenance, reducing the need for extra watering, fertilizers or pesticides. Finally, assemble your observations and selections into a final design or master plan. This plan should include a thoughtful combination of native trees, shrubs, perennials and ground covers, arranged to maximize year-round beauty, conserve natural resources and enhance the local ecosystem. ![growing-ornamental-grasses-mulch-bed](https://www.moodscapesdesign.com/hs-fs/hubfs/blog/growing-ornamental-grasses-mulch-bed.png?width=1250&height=936&name=growing-ornamental-grasses-mulch-bed.png) Starting small — perhaps focusing on one garden bed or specific section of your yard — allows you to test plant combinations, refine your landscaping practices and gradually expand your sustainable landscaping efforts across your property. Integrating native plants into your Massachusetts garden transforms an ordinary yard into a resilient, ecologically vibrant outdoor space. By focusing on native species, you reduce reliance on pesticides and non-native plants, protect local ecosystems and support biodiversity. Careful landscaping practices — from site analysis to thoughtful selection of perennials, ground covers and trees — allow homeowners to enjoy [a low-maintenance, sustainable and beautiful landscape](https://www.moodscapesdesign.com/blog/low-maintenance-landscaping-ideas-that-nourish-the-spirit) that benefits both people and natural resources. With the right approach, your native landscaping can thrive while conserving water, supporting pollinators and enhancing the local environment for years to come. To learn more about designing a custom landscape for your home, download our free ebook, [The Mindful Homeowner's Guide to Transformative Landscape Design](https://www.moodscapesdesign.com/download-guide-personalized-landscape-design). If you're ready to get started on your new landscape project, or simply want to learn more about the process, you can [contact our team here](https://www.moodscapesdesign.com/landscape-project-free-15-minute-call) to schedule a free consultation. We'd love to talk to you! [![New Call-to-action](https://no-cache.hubspot.com/cta/default/25834/830d5cec-7245-48c8-b7cc-899f52fec983.png)](https://cta-redirect.hubspot.com/cta/redirect/25834/830d5cec-7245-48c8-b7cc-899f52fec983) ## Related Articles: Landscape Design [![Striking Winter Landscaping Ideas That Catch the Eye Even in Cold Weather](https://www.moodscapesdesign.com/hubfs/striking-winter-landscaping-ideas.jpg) **Striking Winter Landscaping Ideas That Catch the Eye Even in Cold Weather** ](https://www.moodscapesdesign.com/blog/striking-winter-landscaping-ideas-that-catch-the-eye-even-in-cold-weather-1) [![7 Festive Christmas Plants and Flowers (That Aren’t a Poinsettia)](https://www.moodscapesdesign.com/hubfs/blog/christmas-plants-cyclamen.jpg) **7 Festive Christmas Plants and Flowers (That Aren’t a Poinsettia)** ](https://www.moodscapesdesign.com/blog/festive-christmas-plnats) [![How to Create a Long-Lasting Landscape for Your Home That Thrives for Generations](https://www.moodscapesdesign.com/hubfs/sustainable-lawns-3.jpg) **How to Create a Long-Lasting Landscape for Your Home That Thrives for Generations** ](https://www.moodscapesdesign.com/blog/how-to-create-a-long-lasting-landscape-for-your-home-that-thrives-for-generations) [![How to Design a Year-Round Landscape That Dazzles in Every Season](https://www.moodscapesdesign.com/hubfs/blog/diy-Guide-to-Garden-Landscaping.jpg) **How to Design a Year-Round Landscape That Dazzles in Every Season** ](https://www.moodscapesdesign.com/blog/how-to-design-a-year-round-landscape-that-dazzles-in-every-season) [![The Secret to Low-Maintenance Garden Borders: Landscape Design Flow](https://www.moodscapesdesign.com/hubfs/blog/multiple-colored-front-yard.jpg) **The Secret to Low-Maintenance Garden Borders: Landscape Design Flow** ](https://www.moodscapesdesign.com/blog/the-secret-to-low-maintenance-garden-borders-landscape-design-flow) [![The Building Blocks of Sustainable Landscaping: A Beginner’s Guide](https://www.moodscapesdesign.com/hubfs/blog/soil-is-everything-when-sustainable-landscaping-1.png) **The Building Blocks of Sustainable Landscaping: A Beginner’s Guide** ](https://www.moodscapesdesign.com/blog/the-building-blocks-of-sustainable-landscaping-a-beginners-guide) [![How to Unlock Your Yard’s Potential with a Thoughtful Landscape Design](https://www.moodscapesdesign.com/hubfs/song/P8051686-1.jpg) **How to Unlock Your Yard’s Potential with a Thoughtful Landscape Design** ](https://www.moodscapesdesign.com/blog/how-to-unlock-your-yards-potential-with-a-thoughtful-landscape-design) [![Designing an Outside Living Room in Your Landscape That Feels Like Home](https://www.moodscapesdesign.com/hubfs/blog/patio-with-fireplace-ideas-living-dining-rooms.jpg) **Designing an Outside Living Room in Your Landscape That Feels Like Home** ](https://www.moodscapesdesign.com/blog/designing-an-outside-living-room-in-your-landscape-that-feels-like-home) [![Landscape Lighting: How to Design a Lighting Plan That Illuminates Your Home](https://www.moodscapesdesign.com/hubfs/blog/landscape-lighting-solar-lights.jpg) **Landscape Lighting: How to Design a Lighting Plan That Illuminates Your Home** ](https://www.moodscapesdesign.com/blog/landscape-lighting-how-to-design-a-lighting-plan-that-illuminates-your-home) [![Creative Landscape Design for Small Yards and Awkward Outdoor Spaces](https://www.moodscapesdesign.com/hubfs/email-images/Screen%20Shot%202023-07-09%20at%2011.09.00%20AM.png) **Creative Landscape Design for Small Yards and Awkward Outdoor Spaces** ](https://www.moodscapesdesign.com/blog/creative-landscape-design-for-small-yards-and-awkward-outdoor-spaces) [![Landscape Planning Steps for a Timeless Outdoor Space](https://www.moodscapesdesign.com/hubfs/blog/diy-Guide-to-Garden-Landscaping.jpg) **Landscape Planning Steps for a Timeless Outdoor Space** ](https://www.moodscapesdesign.com/blog/landscape-planning-steps-for-a-timeless-outdoor-space) [![Privacy Landscaping: Creating Seclusion with Plantings and Design](https://www.moodscapesdesign.com/hubfs/privacy-trees-arborvitae-hedges.jpg) **Privacy Landscaping: Creating Seclusion with Plantings and Design** ](https://www.moodscapesdesign.com/blog/privacy-landscaping-creating-seclusion-with-plantings-and-design) [![A Homeowner’s Guide to Sustainable Garden Design](https://www.moodscapesdesign.com/hubfs/blog/growing-ornamental-grasses-mulch-bed.png) **A Homeowner’s Guide to Sustainable Garden Design** ](https://www.moodscapesdesign.com/blog/a-homeowners-guide-to-sustainable-garden-design) [![How the Landscape Design Process Can Transform a Tired Yard Into a Welcoming Outdoor Space](https://www.moodscapesdesign.com/hubfs/blog/9-easy-gardening-tips.jpg) **How the Landscape Design Process Can Transform a Tired Yard Into a Welcoming Outdoor Space** ](https://www.moodscapesdesign.com/blog/how-the-landscape-design-process-can-transform-a-tired-yard-into-a-welcoming-outdoor-space) [![Creative Border Plant Pairings to Elevate Your Massachusetts Garden Aesthetic](https://www.moodscapesdesign.com/hubfs/blog/creative-border-plant-combos-russian-sage.jpg) **Creative Border Plant Pairings to Elevate Your Massachusetts Garden Aesthetic** ](https://www.moodscapesdesign.com/blog/creative-border-plant-pairings-to-elevate-your-massachusetts-garden-aesthetic) [![The Must-Have Native Plants for a Stunning Garden Design in Massachusetts](https://www.moodscapesdesign.com/hubfs/best-native-plants-virginia-bluebells.jpg) **The Must-Have Native Plants for a Stunning Garden Design in Massachusetts** ](https://www.moodscapesdesign.com/blog/the-must-have-native-plants-for-a-stunning-garden-design-in-massachusetts) [![The Top Low-Maintenance Border Plants That Thrive in Massachusetts](https://www.moodscapesdesign.com/hubfs/moodscapes-theme-2017/images/Portfolios/backyard-oasis/oasis-wall-flowers-fence.png) **The Top Low-Maintenance Border Plants That Thrive in Massachusetts** ](https://www.moodscapesdesign.com/blog/the-top-low-maintenance-border-plants-that-thrive-in-massachusetts) [![Pollinator-Friendly Plants for a Vibrant Massachusetts Garden](https://www.moodscapesdesign.com/hubfs/blog/monarch-butterfly-on-flower.jpg) **Pollinator-Friendly Plants for a Vibrant Massachusetts Garden** ](https://www.moodscapesdesign.com/blog/pollinator-friendly-plants-for-a-vibrant-massachusetts-garden) [![Year-Round Color: The Best Border Plants for Every Season in Massachusetts](https://www.moodscapesdesign.com/hubfs/blog/moisture-controlled-landscape.jpeg) **Year-Round Color: The Best Border Plants for Every Season in Massachusetts** ](https://www.moodscapesdesign.com/blog/year-round-color-the-best-border-plants-for-every-season-in-massachusetts) [![Low-Allergen Landscaping: Organic Solutions for an Allergy-Friendly Yard](https://www.moodscapesdesign.com/hubfs/low-allergen-landscaping-azalea.jpg) **Low-Allergen Landscaping: Organic Solutions for an Allergy-Friendly Yard** ](https://www.moodscapesdesign.com/blog/low-allergen-landscaping-organic-solutions-for-an-allergy-friendly-yard) [![Why Winter Is an Excellent Time for Designing a Landscape Plan](https://www.moodscapesdesign.com/hubfs/blog/best-full-sun-perennials-daylilies.jpg) **Why Winter Is an Excellent Time for Designing a Landscape Plan** ](https://www.moodscapesdesign.com/blog/why-winter-is-an-excellent-time-for-designing-a-landscape-plan) [![Striking Winter Landscaping Ideas That Catch the Eye Even in Cold Weather](https://www.moodscapesdesign.com/hubfs/striking-winter-landscaping-ideas.jpg) **Striking Winter Landscaping Ideas That Catch the Eye Even in Cold Weather** ](https://www.moodscapesdesign.com/blog/striking-winter-landscaping-ideas-that-catch-the-eye-even-in-cold-weather) [![7 Fast-Growing Trees for Privacy in Massachusetts](https://www.moodscapesdesign.com/hubfs/privacy-trees-arborvitae-hedges.jpg) **7 Fast-Growing Trees for Privacy in Massachusetts** ](https://www.moodscapesdesign.com/blog/7-fast-growing-trees-for-privacy-in-massachusetts) [![The Best Full-Sun Perennials That Thrive in Massachusetts Home Landscapes](https://www.moodscapesdesign.com/hubfs/blog/best-full-sun-perennials-phlox.jpg) **The Best Full-Sun Perennials That Thrive in Massachusetts Home Landscapes** ](https://www.moodscapesdesign.com/blog/the-best-full-sun-perennials-that-thrive-in-massachusetts-home-landscapes) [![Planting Ornamental Grasses in the Fall for Year-Round Interest](https://www.moodscapesdesign.com/hubfs/moodscapes-theme-2017/images/Portfolios/Texture%20and%20Color%20Gardens/multi-textured-garden.jpg) **Planting Ornamental Grasses in the Fall for Year-Round Interest** ](https://www.moodscapesdesign.com/blog/planting-ornamental-grasses-in-the-fall-for-year-round-interest) [![Evergreens in Landscaping: The Secret to Visual Interest in the Fall](https://www.moodscapesdesign.com/hubfs/blog/shade-garden-2.jpg) **Evergreens in Landscaping: The Secret to Visual Interest in the Fall** ](https://www.moodscapesdesign.com/blog/evergreens-in-landscaping-the-secret-to-visual-interest-in-the-fall) [![What to Plant in Fall: The Best Options for Massachusetts Landscapes](https://www.moodscapesdesign.com/hubfs/moodscapes-theme-2017/images/Portfolios/Welcoming%20Front%20Yard/welcoming-front-yard-with-focal-point-tree.jpg) **What to Plant in Fall: The Best Options for Massachusetts Landscapes** ](https://www.moodscapesdesign.com/blog/what-to-plant-in-fall-the-best-options-for-massachusetts-landscapes) [![Fall Landscaping to Extend Your Fall Bloom Time for an Attractive Yard](https://www.moodscapesdesign.com/hubfs/email-images/Fall-landscape-plantings.jpg) **Fall Landscaping to Extend Your Fall Bloom Time for an Attractive Yard** ](https://www.moodscapesdesign.com/blog/fall-landscaping-for-attractive-yard) [![A Complete Backyard Makeover in Medford](https://www.moodscapesdesign.com/hubfs/blog/medford-backyard-makeover-after-3.jpg) **A Complete Backyard Makeover in Medford** ](https://www.moodscapesdesign.com/blog/a-complete-backyard-makeover-in-medford) [![7 Tips for Hiring a Professional Landscaper](https://www.moodscapesdesign.com/hubfs/moodscapes-theme-2017/images/Portfolios/Featured%20Projects/8-featured-landscape-design.jpeg) **7 Tips for Hiring a Professional Landscaper** ](https://www.moodscapesdesign.com/blog/7-tips-for-hiring-a-professional-landscaper) [![7 Advantages of Custom Landscaping Services](https://www.moodscapesdesign.com/hubfs/moodscapes-theme-2017/images/banner-1.jpg?t=1489838449424) **7 Advantages of Custom Landscaping Services** ](https://www.moodscapesdesign.com/blog/7-advantages-of-custom-landscaping-services) [![Curb Appeal Landscaping Ideas for a Great First Impression](https://www.moodscapesdesign.com/hubfs/moodscapes-theme-2017/images/Portfolios/Welcoming%20Front%20Yard/1-welcoming-front-yard.jpeg) **Curb Appeal Landscaping Ideas for a Great First Impression** ](https://www.moodscapesdesign.com/blog/curb-appeal-landscaping-to-improve-property-value-and-envy) [![Growing Native Ornamental Grasses: A Beautiful and Eco-Friendly Addition to Your Garden](https://www.moodscapesdesign.com/hubfs/blog/growing-ornamental-grasses-mulch-bed.png) **Growing Native Ornamental Grasses: A Beautiful and Eco-Friendly Addition to Your Garden** ](https://www.moodscapesdesign.com/blog/growing-native-ornamental-grasses-a-beautiful-and-eco-friendly-addition-to-your-garden) [![5 Ways to Enjoy Your Garden Through the Winter Months](https://www.moodscapesdesign.com/hubfs/blog/frosty-berries-in-the-garden.jpg) **5 Ways to Enjoy Your Garden Through the Winter Months** ](https://www.moodscapesdesign.com/blog/5-ways-to-enjoy-your-garden-through-the-winter-months) [![What's great to know about sustainable lawns and lawn care](https://www.moodscapesdesign.com/hubfs/sustainable-lawns-1.jpg) **What's great to know about sustainable lawns and lawn care** ](https://www.moodscapesdesign.com/blog/whats-great-to-know-about-sustainable-lawns-and-lawn-care) [![Shade gardening design ideas that bring the WOW to your landscape](https://www.moodscapesdesign.com/hubfs/moodscapes-theme-2017/images/Portfolios/Strolling%20Gardens/side-strolling-garden-with-plantings.jpg) **Shade gardening design ideas that bring the WOW to your landscape** ](https://www.moodscapesdesign.com/blog/shade-gardening-design-ideas-that-bring-the-wow-to-your-landscape) [![Why Landscape Design is Important and How Professionals Can Help](https://www.moodscapesdesign.com/hubfs/blog/3-curb-appeal-1.jpeg) **Why Landscape Design is Important and How Professionals Can Help** ](https://www.moodscapesdesign.com/blog/landscape-design) [![Yard Landscaping Ideas to Enhance Your Summer Enjoyment](https://www.moodscapesdesign.com/hubfs/blog/E96A2ABB-71DB-419D-9BB3-D704FF02A7C3.jpeg) **Yard Landscaping Ideas to Enhance Your Summer Enjoyment** ](https://www.moodscapesdesign.com/blog/yard-landscaping-ideas-to-enhance-your-summer-enjoyment) [![Landscape Design Ideas You'll Love to Know](https://www.moodscapesdesign.com/hubfs/blog/back-yard-design-ideas.png) **Landscape Design Ideas You'll Love to Know** ](https://www.moodscapesdesign.com/blog/landscape-design-ideas-youll-love-to-know) [![The DIYer’s Guide to Garden Landscaping](https://www.moodscapesdesign.com/hubfs/blog/diy-Guide-to-Garden-Landscaping.jpg) **The DIYer’s Guide to Garden Landscaping** ](https://www.moodscapesdesign.com/blog/the-diyers-guide-to-garden-landscaping) ####  Services - [Landscape Design & Build](https://www.moodscapesdesign.com/landscape-design-services) - [Ecological Landscape Maintenance](https://www.moodscapesdesign.com/ecological-landscape-maintenance-gardening) ####  Contact Us 216 Hillside Ave, Arlington, MA 02476 [781.488.3200](tel:781.488.3200) [info@moodscapesdesign.com](mailto:info@moodscapesdesign.com) ####  Towns We Serve - [Arlington](https://www.moodscapesdesign.com/arlington-ma) - [Belmont](https://www.moodscapesdesign.com/belmont-ma) - [Lexington](https://www.moodscapesdesign.com/lexington-ma) - [Newton](https://www.moodscapesdesign.com/newton-ma) - [Watertown](https://www.moodscapesdesign.com/watertown-ma) - [Winchester](https://www.moodscapesdesign.com/winchester-ma) - [Pricing](https://www.moodscapesdesign.com/pricing) #### Schedule Consultation © 2026 Moodscapes LLC. All Rights Reserved         [Privacy Policy](https://www.moodscapesdesign.com/moodscape-llc-privacy-policy) - [**](https://www.facebook.com/Moodscapes/) - [**](https://www.instagram.com/moodscapes/) - [**](https://twitter.com/MoodscapesLLC) - [**](https://www.linkedin.com/company/moodscapes-llc/) - [**](https://www.pinterest.com/moodscapes/) ```json { "@context" : "http://schema.org", "@type" : "BlogPosting", "author" : { "@type" : "Person", "name" : "Zach Rubin", "url" : "https://www.moodscapesdesign.com/blog/author/zach-rubin" }, "dateModified" : "2025-09-18 08:00:00+08:00", "datePublished" : "2025-09-18 08:00:00+08:00", "description" : "Low-maintenance native plants are a core component of sustainable landscaping, offering beauty, resilience and a connection to local ecosystems ", "headline" : "How to Choose the Right Native Plants for Sustainable Landscaping in Massachusetts", "image" : { "@type" : "ImageObject", "height" : 800, "url" : "https://25834.fs1.hubspotusercontent-na1.net/hubfs/25834/P8070206-1.jpg", "width" : 800 }, "mainEntityOfPage" : { "@id" : "https://www.moodscapesdesign.com/blog/how-to-choose-the-right-native-plants-for-sustainable-landscaping-in-massachusetts", "@type" : "WebPage" }, "publisher" : { "@type" : "Organization", "logo" : { "@type" : "ImageObject", "url" : "https://cdn2.hubspot.net/hubfs/25834/moodscapes-theme-2017/images/logo.png" }, "name" : "Moodscapes LLC" } } ```