I too am planting with natives combined with silk; some successes, a lot of failures most of which was from my lack of knowledge of native plants some of which must go dormant in order to thrive, lighting (the main culprit) and moisture level consistent with needs of native. It can seem complicated. Trail-and-error seemed the best for instant gratification, but I can say now, from experience, do your research and work from the soil up: Right soil for the right plant. Your local county Cooperative Extension Office should have volunteer Master Gardeners and they in turn have a Native Plant Rescue group. That group rescues native plants from sites being demolished for construction. These plants are sold at Master Gardener Plant Sales at your local County Cooperative Extension Office. These volunteers have a wealth of information on native plants in your area.