Low-Cost Native Plants and Rain Garden Coaching Sessions Offered through Plant Dane Native Plant Program

February 04, 2026
Christal Campbell, (608) 228-4493
Land & Water Resources

Dane County and the Madison Area Municipal Stormwater Partnership (MAMSWaP) are now accepting orders for the 2026 Plant Dane Native Plant Sale, offering residents and local groups an affordable way to incorporate native plants into their landscapes. Through this annual sale, high-quality native plants are available at a fraction of their typical retail cost, making it easier than ever to create beautiful, resilient, and environmentally friendly gardens. 

Native plants are a low-maintenance landscaping option with big benefits. Their deep root systems help soak up rainwater, reducing runoff, erosion, and pollution while replenishing groundwater. They also provide critical habitat and food for pollinators and wildlife, supporting a healthy and diverse ecosystem. This spring, consider replacing a small area of turf grass or pavement with a beautiful native garden, downspout garden, or rain garden and create a ripple effect that benefits local waterways. 

Customers can choose from more than 50 native plant species, along with convenient, pre-designed garden kits, including: shoreline, terrace, pollinator, downspout, and rain garden options. Community members can also support local school or neighborhood projects by donating funds to purchase plants for native garden projects through the order site. Plants are priced at $12 per 4-pack, with a minimum purchase of 16 plants. Orders will be accepted through March 17th, or while supplies last, so early ordering is encouraged. To learn more or place an order, visit www.ripple-effects.com/plant-dane . 

In addition, Dane County is offering their annual Dig into Rain Gardens: 1:1 Coaching Sessions. This training is designed to help residents confidently add a beautiful natural feature to their yard that also protects our waters. Rain gardens are shallow, bowl-shaped gardens that capture runoff from rooftops and other hard surfaces, allowing water to slowly soak into the ground. 

During a 30-minute one-on-one session, participants will work with a rain garden expert to review their property using an online mapping tool, identify drainage patterns, choose an ideal garden location, and receive guidance on sizing, plant selection, site preparation, and installation. Coaching sessions cost $20 and will be held on Sunday, March 1, from 8:00 AM to 11:30 AM. Residents of MAMSWaP communities are eligible for up to $50 reimbursement for native plants purchased through the Plant Dane Native Plant Sale. 

Space is limited. Register today at www.ripple-effects.com/Event/Detail/2648.