Green Gardening: Native Plants Help Restore Ecosystem and Wildlife

While Earth Day 2007 has passed by, it is not too late to start living a "greener" lifestyle. We have all heard the many benefits of recycling, conserving energy and carpooling. However, starting a native plant garden can be just as beneficial and aesthetically pleasing. First let's take a look at what a native plant is. A native plant is a plant that originated from a particular area or environment that was not introduced. There are several benefits to using native plants instead of exotic ones. By using exotic plants you also run the risk of inadvertently planting invasive plants in your garden. Invasive plants damage the ecosystem for fish and wildlife as well as kill the native plants growing in the area.

Benefits of Native Gardening
Native plants conserve soil and water: Supportive root systems if native plants assist them in times of drought- thus allowing them to use less water. Absorbing moisture and preventing erosion is another benefit form native plants extensive root system.

Restored Wildlife Habitat: Wildlife habitat becomes restored and different species of birds, butterflies, squirrels, etc... will be re-introduced back into the ecosystem. Native plants grow in organic conditions- so the insect and bug balance is restored and the need for pesticides disappears. More animals mean a better balance of wildlife- which in turn helps the planet.

Less Maintenance: Landscaping or gardening with native plants greatly reduces your maintenance and upkeep time you need to spend in your yard. They have already been adapted to the environment so no special pruning or fertilizer is needed.

Landscaping with Native Plants
When you landscape with native plants make sure you gain an understanding of the site you plan to plant in. What type of soil is it? How is the drainage and soil moisture? What does the neighboring natural vegetation look like? Is there a heavy concentration of noxious weeds around? Shop around and make sure your native plants have not been dug up from the wild. This can deplete the resources and many plants die after being transplanted. I prefer to use seeds that have a high percentage of PLS or pure live seed. PLS are clean, germ-tested and source- certified seeds. Keep in mind though that many native plants take a few years before they become attractive, so don't be discouraged if after the first season your garden is not what you expected.

Some native plant/tree suggestions are: Illinois, Iowa, and Missouri: Black-eyed Susan, Blue Wild Indigo and Red Maple tree. Delaware, Southern New Jersey, and Long Island, New York: Royal Fern, New England Aster & Red Mulberry tree. Georgia, Alabama, and Mississippi: Blue Violet, Flowering Dogwood, and Cedar Elm tree. Ohio and Indiana: Wild Columbine, Red Chokeberry and American Hemlock tree. Idaho, Eastern Oregon and Eastern Washington: Rocky Mountain Pensternon, Apache Plume and Western Juniper tree.

Good luck and happy planting!