Iowans are advised they can help preserve the state’s biodiversity ahead of the winter months. The Iowa Department of Natural Resources states landowners can help add native plants to their properties even after the recent first frost of the season.

The natural plants, including native grasses and wildflowers, benefit landowners through erosion prevention and drought resistance. Those plants then also benefit the surrounding environment by helping to sustain wildlife that    historically relied on these native plants. The DNR recommends using primarily shorter species such as Pale Purple Coneflower, Purple Prairie Clover and Sky Blue Aster. The plants should be seeded in groups of at least five.

According to the DNR, the best time to plant is now before the ground completely freezes to provide the seeds with additional insulation before the winter, especially if they can be planted immediately before a snow storm to provide protection from birds and mice.