Shrubs are the go-to plants for landscapers. Native shrubs fill important ecological functions, providing berries and shelter for birds (which nest at a variety of heights), and host plants for numerous insects.

There are native shrubs for every growing condition. Deer deterrents may be needed, depending on the plant and the location. From the standpoint of ecological value and resilience, the straight species, propagated by seed, provide the most benefit. For some gardening situations, though, cultivars (which are clones) allow the use of a species that might otherwise be too large for the space.

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If you choose a shrub whose ultimate size will fit the space, there will be no need for pruning. If desired, most shrubs can be pruned in late winter by cutting 1/3 of the stems to the ground, leaving others, removing suckers as needed, and shaping the upper layers lightly as needed. Warning: if you leave your perennials standing over the winter, which is highly desirable, it is wise to cut them back before you let a landscaping company work on your property, as they might end up cutting down the shrubs as well!