Specifying Plants for Stormwater & Green Infrastructure Projects: A Wholesale Nursery’s Guide
Specifying Plants for Stormwater & Green Infrastructure Projects: A Wholesale Nursery’s Guide
Illinois municipalities, engineers, and landscape architects are increasingly tasked with designing landscapes that manage stormwater naturally while enhancing public spaces. Bioswales, rain gardens, and green streets are no longer niche — they’re essential infrastructure. Choosing the right plant materials and working with a knowledgeable wholesale nursery partner is key to long-term performance.
Why Plant Selection Matters
Stormwater plantings must handle extremes: temporary flooding, periods of drought, road salt exposure, and urban heat. The wrong choice can lead to high replacement rates, higher maintenance costs, and reduced project performance.
Core Plant Selection Criteria
Moisture Tolerance
Species like Swamp Milkweed, River Birch, and Soft Rush thrive in saturated soils but can also handle dry spells.
Native Origins
Illinois-native plants offer ecological benefits and better adaptation to local climate.
Root Depth
Deep roots stabilize soil and improve infiltration, essential for effective stormwater management.
Seasonal Interest
Attractive year-round plantings encourage public support and community stewardship.
Illinois-Appropriate Plant Palette
Trees
River Birch, Bald Cypress, and Swamp White Oak are excellent choices for structure and water absorption.
Shrubs
Consider Buttonbush, Winterberry Holly, and Red Osier Dogwood for durability and visual appeal.
Perennials/Grasses
Blue Flag Iris, Prairie Dropseed, and Joe-Pye Weed offer color and texture while filtering runoff.
Success in Wholesale Orders & Partnerships
Specifying Quality
When preparing bid documents or purchase orders:
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Size Matters: Specify root mass and container size (e.g., #3 container or 2” caliper B&B).
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Provenance: Require nursery provenance information for native plant stock.
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Inspections: Include inspection protocols for root flare visibility, pest-free certification, and plant vigor.
Partnering with Woody’s
A wholesale nursery like Woody’s can:
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Data Sheets: Provide grower data sheets for all species to ensure compliance.
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Phased Delivery: Stage orders to match phased construction schedules efficiently.
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Smart Substitutions: Offer consultation on substitutions if specific species are unavailable.
Conclusion & Call to Action
Stormwater planting success begins with the right specifications and a nursery partner that understands both engineering goals and horticultural realities.
Contact Woody’s Plant Nursery today to discuss plant lists, lead times, and delivery coordination for your next green infrastructure project.
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