WHY NATIVE PLANTS?

Native plants (trees, shrubs, grasses, wildflowers) have co-evolved in our area for thousands of years in prairies, savannas, wetlands and woodlands.  Their symbiotic relationships with living and nonliving organisms, make them the most sustainable plants for our area.  Ask yourself: What other plants contribute all of the benefits listed below?

Native Plants:

• They are wildlife’s basic life support system, providing food, clean water, nesting areas, shelter and more. 
• Convert the sun’s energy into energy for local wildlife who eat only native plants (ie. Monarchs). This energy sustains other wildlife in the food web, which in turn sustains humans and entire ecosystems.  
• In our landscapes, provide “rest stops” between natural areas and parks with wildlife habitat, which are often too far apart. 

• Improve the quality of our drinking water, rivers, lakes and streams. Their deep root systems help filter out pollutants, and absorb run-off like giant underground sponges. 

• Add organic matter deep down into our soil, as old roots continuously die and new roots grow. This converts to nutrients and improves clay soils. It also increases carbon sequestration and sustains soil communities (ants, fungi, microorganisms, …).
• Benefit food gardens and farms by attracting pollinators and beneficial wildlife, decreasing pests, and absorbing irrigation and fertilizer runoff. 

• Are becoming endangered or threatened, impacting the wildlife they sustain. Monarchs, Rusty Patched bumble bees and many other wildlife were once common, but are now in risk of extinction. 

• Are beautiful in color, texture, scent and sound. They posses both inner and outer beauty.