One of the most rewarding parts of buckthorn removal is what comes next: watching native vegetation begin to reclaim the space buckthorn had occupied. In many cases, native plants that were suppressed by the buckthorn canopy will rebound on their own once the shade and allelopathic pressure are removed. But in areas where the infestation was severe, you may want to actively restore native species to help fill the void before buckthorn seedlings get there first.
Here are some of our favorite native plants for restoring woodland edges and understories in Lake County and Northern Cook County.
Shrubs
Wild Plum (Prunus americana) is a fast-growing native shrub that provides excellent wildlife value, including spring blossoms for pollinators and fruit for birds and mammals. It's a good choice for open edges and old field situations.
Nannyberry (Viburnum lentago) is a large native shrub well-suited to moist woodland edges. It produces white flowers in spring and dark berries in fall that birds love. Very tolerant of shade.
Elderberry (Sambucus canadensis) is an aggressive grower and excellent for quickly filling gaps in disturbed areas. The flower clusters and berries are valuable to a wide range of wildlife. It does best in moist soils.
Woodland Wildflowers
Wild Ginger (Asarum canadense) is a low, spreading groundcover that thrives in shaded woodland conditions. Excellent for suppressing weeds once established.
Virginia Bluebells (Mertensia virginica) bloom in early spring and can naturalize under open woodland canopies. A beautiful plant that signals spring each year.
Trillium (Trillium grandiflorum) is a classic Illinois woodland wildflower. Slow to establish, but long-lived and stunning in large drifts. Best planted as plugs or transplanted divisions.
Grasses and Sedges
Pennsylvania Sedge (Carex pensylvanica) is one of the best native groundcovers for dry to mesic woodland conditions. Forms a low, spreading mat and requires minimal maintenance once established.
Prairie Dropseed (Sporobolus heterolepis) is excellent for open, sunny areas created by buckthorn removal. Fine-textured, low-maintenance, and fragrant in late summer.
A Note on Timing
The best time to plant most native species is fall (for spring-blooming wildflowers and woody plants) or spring (for grasses and warm-season species). If you're planning a restoration after buckthorn removal, we'd recommend coordinating the removal and planting in the same year to get a head start on establishment before the next round of buckthorn seedling emergence.
We're happy to discuss restoration strategies when we assess your property. Reach out to us if you'd like to include a planting plan as part of your buckthorn management program.