Native Plants

Native Plants. . , What is a native plant? , Native plants are usually described as those that have been growing in a place for a very long time, sometimes longer than people have been there! These plants fit well into the diversity of their ecosystems, and help their communities stay strong and supported. Many animals have evolved to depend on these long standing plant neighbors, so much so that their lives depend on it. Without native plants, many insects, birds, and other creatures cannot survive in their current habitat. , , Why plant natives? , In the last century, millions of acres of native ecosystems have been severely damaged or lost to development, manicured lawns and introduced plants. These introduced and cultivated plants often out-compete existing species for resources, damaging the original diversity of the ecosystem, and sometimes eliminating native plants from their habitat entirely. , , Native plants provide food and shelter for insects, birds, and other wildlife. When native plants are placed in conditions that match their growing requirements, they don't need fertilizers and usually require less supplemental watering, pesticides and care.