46 Nebraskaland • October 2025
hen fall rolls into
Nebraska, it's not just
people grabbing cozy
sweaters and pumpkin
spice lattes — our native prairie plants
are busy getting ready for winter, too.
These tough plants have a toolkit of
tricks to handle the changing seasons,
ensuring they survive the chilly
months and come back strong in the
spring.
The Mighty Roots
If prairie plants had a superpower, it
would undoubtedly be their incredible
root systems. Picture big bluestem or
purple conefl ower. While we admire
the foliage and blooms above ground,
the real action is happening beneath
the surface. The plants' roots dig deep
into the soil, sometimes reaching
down 10 feet or more — they're like
nature's underground skyscrapers.
These roots don't just anchor the
plant. During the summer, they work
tirelessly to gather nutrients and
water, soaking up everything they can
while the days are long and the sun
shines bright.
Then when fall arrives, it's time for
a serious shift. The plant transitions
from growth mode to survival mode. All
that energy that was once dedicated to
maintaining those beautiful stems and
leaves are now redirected to the roots.
Prairie plants begin hoarding nutrients
Nebraska
Prairie Plants
Prepare for
Winter
By Monica Macoubrie, Wildlife Education Specialist
W
Known for its showy yellow fl owers earlier in the year, the common evening
primrose takes on a diff erent beauty in fall. JUSTIN HAAG, NEBRASKALAND
