what’s the deal with native plants?

As we ring in the New Year and look ahead to the warmer months, it’s the perfect time to start planning how you’ll transform your garden. Sure, it may be buried in snow right now, but planting season will be here before you know it, and now is the time to set yourself up for success. One of the best gardening resolutions you can make this year is to embrace native plants – and here’s why.

Why use native plants?

Native plants are well suited to their environment. They know just how to handle those harsh winters and hot summers, so they don’t need the constant attention that exotic plants do. No more endless watering, fertilizing, or fighting off pests. By planting native species, you reduce your reliance on these practices, which not only saves you time and effort but also conserves water and minimizes the use of harmful chemicals. Plus, with less fertilizer and pesticide runoff, you’ll be helping protect our waterways from toxic pollution.

Not only that, but now that you don’t have to constantly maintain intense care of your finicky exotic plants, you have a lot of extra time on your hands! And you can spend that time enjoying all of the diverse native wildlife that will come to celebrate your thriving garden. Which brings me to my next point…

Native plants bring native wildlife!

In addition to creating a low-maintenance, beautiful garden, native plants are essential for supporting local wildlife. Bees, butterflies, birds, and other pollinators rely on native plants for food and shelter, and unfortunately, these species are in trouble. Pollinator populations have been dropping due to habitat loss, pesticide use, and the spread of exotic and invasive plants that don’t support local ecosystems.

Native plants can make a real difference. These plant species provide the nectar, pollen and seeds that pollinators need to thrive. If we want to help save these vital species, planting native varieties is a simple but powerful way to start. Native plants are key to a beautiful yard, a balanced ecosystem, and a healthy planet.

Getting Started

If you’re ready to dive into the world of native gardening, start with a native plant finder to find plants native to your area. There are also native plant societies all across the country that can help you with your search. There are plenty of tip guides and resources for planting native pollinator-friendly plants (like milkweed!).

So this year, why not let your garden go wild with native plants?