In streamside or riparian areas, choosing the right plants and where to plant them depends on location in relation to the streambed. There are three zones that dictate the kinds of plants that can be grown.
Bare-root native plants are an economical way for gardeners to contribute to the health of ecosystems and watersheds. While they are affordable because of their small size, they also require careful handling.
The grafting of vegetable plants has been done for decades around the globe, but it has been slow to catch on in the United States. It holds promise as a disease management tool although cost remains a barrier.
Although grain crops bring in less revenue than vegetables or fruit, they can become an important part of a farming enterprise. Grains are less labor-intensive and can be grown when fields need a rest.
Plants native to the Northwest are well adapted to conditions near streams where the groundwater table is shallow enough to interact with plant roots. Here's a guide to selecting plants for areas near streams.
Poisonous plants are a major cause of economic loss to the livestock industry. Two poisonous plants common to Oregon are poison hemlock and Western water hemlock. Ingestion of either by humans or livestock typically results in death.
Invasive plants disrupt ecosystems and have no place in streamside gardens. But these plants can be tempting because of their showy flowers and cheap prices.