Virginia Natural Heritage Program
The Web site of the Virginia Natural Heritage Program describes this initiative's "comprehensive effort to save Virginia's native plant and animal life and the ecosystems upon which they depend." The site includes lists of native plants, as well as invasive plants to avoid. There is detailed information on the various natural habitats in the state and on the status of rare plants and animals.
Clever Gardening Technique
Mark Location of Perennials
Even the most experienced gardener has mistakenly "weeded" out a perennial or two. You may think you'll remember where everything is planted next spring, but when the weeds start to emerge, you may find yourself wondering what is what. So mark the location of all your perennials now. There are many decorative plant markers available for the job. In beds where I don't want to see the markers, I attach small, permanent tags to metal pins -- the type sold to hold down landscape fabric -- and sink them down close to the ground.