Restoring a Small Woodland Lot for Biodiversity
When a northern Illinois landowner reached out to our team, her goal was simple but inspiring: transform her 0.8-acre wooded lot into a thriving native ecosystem. With plans to eventually build a home on the site, she wanted to improve soil health, support local wildlife, and bring diversity back to the land - all while planning carefully for future infrastructure.
Our consultation focused on practical, science-based steps to start the restoration process and create a clear, achievable plan for the years ahead.
Step One: Map the Vision
Before ordering seed or breaking ground, we recommended working with her general-contractor partner to rough out the home, septic, and driveway locations. Establishing this plan early helps ensure restoration efforts are focused in the right areas and prevents planting species that could later interfere with construction.
For the septic area, we advised using a modified native mix without deep-rooted woody plants to avoid issues with drain tile fields while still maintaining native diversity.
Step Two: Remove Invasives the Smart Way
Like many woodland properties in McHenry County, this site had a heavy presence of bush honeysuckle and garlic mustard. Our team outlined a low-impact removal approach - cutting the honeysuckle and managing resprouts rather than digging, which can disturb soil and awaken weed seeds.
Winter is an ideal time for this work, and burning or bagging the cut material helps prevent regrowth. Over time, repeated cutting or shading (using black plastic “buckthorn bags”) can eliminate the woody invasives entirely.
Step Three: Establish a Native Foundation
After invasive removal, we suggested seeding the woodland with a native woodland or savanna mix designed for filtered sunlight and variable soil moisture. These mixes introduce diversity quickly and support pollinators, birds, and beneficial insects.
Because native plants take time to establish, we also recommended including a temporary cover crop like Virginia rye to protect the soil and suppress weeds during the first growing seasons.
The best time to sow? Late fall through early spring—using the freeze-thaw cycle to naturally work the seeds into the soil. Learn more about cold-moist stratification on our blog.
Step Four: Create a Curated Native Landscape
Near the future home site, the landowner wanted a more intentional look. We suggested planting native perennial plugs such as black-eyed Susan, wild geranium, and purple coneflower for continuous blooms from early spring through fall.
Using mulch during the first year helps control weeds and maintain a tidy appearance. Adding an edged border or walking path provides a clear visual cue that the landscape is designed, not neglected.
Step Five: Understand the Land’s Heritage
Large oak trees on the property indicate it may be part of a historic oak woodland remnant. We recommended checking 1939 aerial imagery through the Chicago Wilderness Hub to confirm, and watching for spring ephemerals like Virginia bluebells or mayapples next year.
If these native wildflowers appear, it’s a strong sign of ecological continuity worth preserving and enhancing through gentle restoration practices.
Tools, Resources, and Next Steps
To support this project, we shared:
- The Native Landscaping Guide (PDF) – offering layout examples and native plant ideas.
- Stewardship Circle Program – providing a 25% discount on seed and plugs for members supporting a local conservation nonprofit such as the Land Conservancy of McHenry County.
By joining a local land trust, landowners gain expert support and contribute directly to regional conservation efforts.
The Big Picture
This consultation is a great reminder that even small woodlands can make a big impact. With thoughtful planning, invasive removal, and the right native seed mix, a once-overgrown lot can become a vibrant habitat supporting pollinators, birds, and soil health for generations to come.
Our mission is to empower landowners with the tools and knowledge to restore native ecosystems - one acre at a time.
Ready to Restore Your Land?
Schedule a Free Phone Consultation with our team to discuss your site and goals. Whether you’re managing a few acres or a few hundred, we’ll help you design a restoration plan that works with your land and your lifestyle.