Not sure where to begin? These simple plant groupings take the guesswork out of planning.
Each combination is designed to work well together in the Black Hills—helping you create privacy, support wildlife, or handle tough conditions with confidence.
Use these as a starting point. You can always adjust based on your space and goals.
🌿 Easy Privacy Hedge (Low-Maintenance)
Goal: Reliable screening with minimal upkeep
Try planting:
- Common lilac
- Caragana
- Red osier dogwood
Why it works:
- Tough, adaptable plants
- Good mix of height and structure
- Fills in over time without heavy pruning
Spacing tip:
Plant about 4–6 feet apart for faster coverage.
🐦 Wildlife-Friendly Row
Goal: Support birds, pollinators, and a more natural landscape
Try planting:
- Chokecherry
- American black currant
- Nanking cherry
Why it works:
- Provides flowers, berries, and shelter
- Attracts a variety of wildlife
- Creates a layered, natural look
Spacing tip:
Plant in a slightly staggered row for a more natural effect.
🌬️ Wind-Tough Starter Planting
Goal: Handle exposed, windy, and challenging sites
Try planting:
- Caragana
- Silver buffaloberry
- Sumac
Why it works:
- Extremely hardy and wind-tolerant
- Performs well in poor or dry soils
- Provides strong structure in open areas
🌸 Spring Interest Row
Goal: Early-season color and visual impact
Try planting:
- Lilac
- Nanking cherry
- Spirea
Why it works:
- Staggered bloom times
- Strong seasonal color
- Easy to grow and maintain
🌿 Low-Water / Tough Conditions Mix
Goal: Lower maintenance after establishment
Try planting:
- Caragana
- Cotoneaster
- Sand cherry
Why it works:
- Tolerates dry conditions
- Adapts to a range of soils
- Reliable long-term performers
🌿 Getting Started Tips
- Start with 3–5 plants and expand over time
- It’s okay if things look spaced out at first—they will fill in
- Match your plants to your site (sun, wind, soil) for best results
🌿 Final Thought
You don’t need a complicated plan to get started.
A small group of well-chosen plants can grow into a functional, beautiful part of your landscape over time.