What to Plant Instead of Trees in Nebraska

Nebraska is known for its vast prairies and flatlands. While trees may not be the first thing that comes to mind when you think of Nebraska, planting trees has been a common practice to help with erosion control, windbreaks, and creating habitats for wildlife. However, due to certain factors such as drought and disease, planting trees may not always be the best option. Here are some alternative options on what to plant instead of trees in Nebraska:

Grasses

Grasses are a great alternative to planting trees in Nebraska due to their drought tolerance, low maintenance and ability to help with soil erosion. Some of the commonly used grasses in Nebraska include big bluestem, little bluestem, switchgrass, and indiangrass. These grasses can provide food and shelter for wildlife and contributes to the overall aesthetic of the area.

Shrubs

Shrubs also offer a great alternative to trees in Nebraska, providing similar benefits such as reducing soil erosion and providing habitats for wildlife. Some of the commonly used shrubs in Nebraska include American plum, buffaloberry, and elderberry. These shrubs also provide beautiful blooms and fruits that can be enjoyed by both people and animals.

Wildflowers

Wildflowers should be considered when looking for alternatives to trees in Nebraska. These plants can add color to the landscape, help with soil erosion and provide habitats for pollinators like bees and butterflies. Some of the commonly used wildflowers in Nebraska include blanketflower, black-eyed Susan, and coneflower.

Vegetables and Fruit Trees

Nebraska has a great climate for growing vegetables and fruit trees. Planting these can be a sustainable way to produce food while adding beauty to the landscape. Consider planting fruits like apples, peaches, and cherries or vegetables like tomatoes, peppers, and cucumbers. These can also be great options for community gardens or urban areas where space may be limited.

Conclusion

Planting trees may not always be the best option in Nebraska due to certain factors like drought and disease. However, there are many great alternatives such as grasses, shrubs, wildflowers, and even vegetables and fruit trees. These can offer similar benefits as trees while providing great aesthetics and helping the environment.