The Benefits Of Adding Native Plants To Your Yard

Native plants are those that occur naturally in a particular region. As opposed to non-native or invasive plants that were brought to an area by humans, either accidentally or intentionally. Invasive plants out compete and eliminate their native counterparts. This is a problem because many animals rely on native plants to survive. The modern dream of having a manicured lawn made of turf grass has eliminated millions of acres of habitat. By planting native species in your lawn, you can create a home for a variety of animals including beneficial insects and birds. In addition, native plants are low maintenance and require less water and less fertilizer, which saves you time and money.

Create Habitat For Wildlife

Plants, unlike animals, are able to convert energy from the sun into food. This ability makes them the basis of an ecosystem upon which all life depends. All animals either eat plants or eat animals that eat plants. Many animals such as birds and amphibians rely on specific insects as a food source. These insects rely on specific native plant species to survive. When native plants are out competed and/or replaced by invasive plants, beneficial insects die off and subsequently bird and amphibian populations suffer. Adding native plants to your landscape can create much needed habitat for a diversity of wildlife.

Use Less Water and Fertilizer For A Healthier River

​Native plants are well adapted to our soil and climate. This means they need less water and less fertilizer to thrive here. Fertilizing and watering your lawn and flower beds can take lots of time and money. Besides saving time and money, using less fertilizer can greatly benefit local streams. Excess fertilizer is washed off lawns and carried to local rivers where it contributes to algae growth and robs the water of oxygen, suffocating plant and animal life.