Prairie Ecosystems

Prairies are different from other ecosystems. Because of their deep roots, prairie plants are resistant to drought. About two-thirds of a prairie is actually underground as a dense mat of roots. Individual prairie roots live only a short time, while the entire plant may live for centuries. As the roots die they continually add organic matter to the soil, making it exceptionally fertile. Prairies require at least a half day of full sun, and grow best in completely open sites. Because of the matting of roots, prairies absorb excess water and stop soil erosion. A prairie planted from seedlings (such as those offered here) can become mature in two or three years. In contrast, a planted forest takes decades to mature.

Prairie wildflowers, (properly called "forbs"), provide abundant food for colorful insects, particularly moths and butterflies (see list). Prairie pollen tends to remain in the flowers and does not cause hay fever. Several prairie species have wonderfully fragrant flowers, even in winter, when seedheads can be crushed to release natural aromas.

A conventional flower garden has little to offer in the dead of winter. Prairies, however, exhibit delightful forms and textures in winter snows and frosts. In the late fall or winter rains, prairie grasses appear to come to life with subtle, but glowing, colors.