Sustainable Landscaping Ideas to Boost Property Value: Why Native Plants Are a Smart Choice in Middle Tennessee

April 30, 2025

Design a Thriving, Low-Maintenance Yard with Native Plants

Creating a beautiful yard doesn’t have to come at the expense of your time, budget, or the environment. In fact, when you choose sustainable landscaping practices—especially using native plants and trees—you not only contribute to a healthier ecosystem, but you also boost your home’s curb appeal and long-term property value.


At Quality First Tree Service and Landscaping, we help homeowners throughout Middle Tennessee design low-maintenance, eco-friendly landscapes that thrive naturally in our local climate. Let’s explore how native species can make your yard more resilient, attractive, and valuable.

Why Go Native?

Native plants are species that have naturally evolved in a specific region over thousands of years. In Middle Tennessee, these plants are well-adapted to our humid subtropical climate, which includes hot summers, mild winters, and periodic heavy rainfall. Native flora thrives with minimal watering, fertilization, or pest control—saving you money and effort while reducing your environmental impact.

Benefits of Native Landscaping


1. Lower Maintenance and Costs

Because they’re already suited to local soil and climate conditions, native plants need less water, fewer chemical treatments, and less overall maintenance. This can significantly reduce your lawn care expenses over time.


2. Increased Property Value

According to the National Association of Realtors, a well-landscaped yard can add up to 10-15% to your home’s value. Sustainable landscapes—especially those that are low-maintenance and eco-conscious—are increasingly attractive to today’s homebuyers.


3. Natural Pest Resistance

Native plants are better at resisting local pests and diseases, which means your yard will look better year-round without excessive use of pesticides.


4. Improved Biodiversity

Using native species supports pollinators, birds, and beneficial insects, creating a healthier, more balanced environment right in your backyard.

Top Native Plants and Trees for Middle Tennessee Landscapes

Here are some great choices to consider when designing a sustainable, eye-catching landscape:


Trees

  • Eastern Redbud (Cercis canadensis) – A beautiful ornamental tree that blooms with striking pink flowers each spring.
  • Southern Magnolia (Magnolia grandiflora) – Iconic for its glossy leaves and fragrant white blossoms.
  • Shagbark Hickory (Carya ovata) – Provides excellent shade and supports local wildlife.


Shrubs

  • Virginia Sweetspire (Itea virginica) – A compact shrub with white blooms and rich fall color.
  • Oakleaf Hydrangea (Hydrangea quercifolia) – A showstopper with large flower clusters and attractive foliage.

Ground Covers & Grasses

  • Eastern Bluestar (Amsonia tabernaemontana) – Delicate blue flowers and golden fall foliage.
  • Little Bluestem (Schizachyrium scoparium) – A native ornamental grass that turns deep red-orange in the fall.


Pollinator-Friendly Plants

  • Purple Coneflower (Echinacea purpurea) – Popular with bees and butterflies, with long-blooming purple petals.
  • Bee Balm (Monarda didyma) – Vibrant red or pink blooms that attract hummingbirds and other pollinators.

How We Can Help

Choosing native plants is more than just a landscaping trend—it’s a smart investment in the beauty, health, and value of your home. With the right mix of trees, shrubs, and flowers, you can enjoy a thriving yard that supports local wildlife, withstands the elements, and enhances your property’s appeal for years to come.


When it comes to your trees, if you’ve got questions about their health or want to remove them to make way for native plants, contact Quality First Tree Service today! 

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