Common Plant Substitutions

From time to time, requested plant material may not be available when required. Finding an appropriate substitute for an unavailable plant should always be considered carefully. Here is a list of factors that should be considered when making a selection.

1. Site Considerations
   • Biogeoclimatci zone
     • Elevation
     • Subzone
   • Hydrology
     • Ground water
     • Proximity to water body
   • Soil Type
   • Exposure to sun and weather
   • Associated plants
   • Purpose of planting
   • Time of year
2. Plant Considerations
   • Plant type
     • branching, roots, leaves, size
     • Diseases
   • Ecological adaptations
     • Water, salt, soil, shade, diseases
     • Best uses
     • Typical associates
3. Habitat considerations
   • Impacts on terrestrial and aquatic life
4. Human considerations
   • Conflicts with human use or contribution to proposed plan

It may be impossible to find a perfect replacement but the more questions asked and factors considered the better the substitute.

If there is sufficient lead time, contract growing of the requested plant material may avoid the necessity for substitutes.