What are native plants?

Native plants are indigenous plants, and occurred in the region before settlement by Europeans.  They evolved in the area, along with indigenous animals and insects.  As a result, they are uniquely adapted to the soil and climate and play an important role in plant and animal communities.   Non-native plants were introduced from other countries or regions.

Why should I plant native plants?

Because they are fun, beautiful and easy! Native plants were living here long before we arrived with our fertilizers and pruners. Once established, native plants provide 4 seasons of carefree beauty if they are properly sited.  They play an important role in the environment and support beneficial insects, butterflies, birds and wildlife.

Will native plants grow in my garden?

There are native plants adapted to thrive in any condition from wet, soggy clay to dry, gravelly soil, and from hot sun to full shade. When well placed, native plants do not require watering, fertilizer or pesticides. Native plants provide four seasons of pleasure, with flowers in the spring, berries in the summer, brilliant colors in the fall and interesting bark and twig patterns in the winter.

What difference does it make if I plant a native or non-native?

The seed from non-native plants can travel a distance from your garden, via birds and animals. Invasive plants have been known to take over waysides, waterways and roadsides – - Miscanthus grass, purple loosestrife and bamboo are a few examples. Once they are on the “highway system” its a short trip to natural and naturalized areas. We all need to garden as if we lived on the edge of the woods.

Do native plants have ornamental value?

Browse through some of the pictures on our site, and decide for yourself.

What about all the great non-native plants?

Non-native plants can spread so vigorously that they displace native plants, as well as the insects, birds, and animals that feed on them. Invasive plants can push rare – and not-so-rare – species to the brink of extinction. Over the past 200 years, several thousand foreign plant and animal species have become established in the United States, and about one in seven has become invasive. Controlling just a single invasive can carry a price tag in the millions.

No one can predict when, or whether, an exotic plant will become invasive. Rather than using non-native plants in your garden that could someday be a problem, plant natives — they belong there. When well placed, they require very little maintenance. They also provide pollen for our bees, berries for our birds, and food and habitat for our wildlife.

Can you suggest substitutes for some of the non-native plants?

We hope to post a PDF of some substitutes for non-native invasives. Please check back later.