Why Native Plants Matter?
Native plants are adapted to the local climate and soil conditions where they naturally occur. These important plant species provide nectar, pollen, and seeds that serve as food for native butterflies, insects, birds, and other animals. Unlike natives, common horticultural plants do not fit the bill. These adaptations bring us several gardening advantages:
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Wildlife Viewing
Native plants, birds, butterflies, beneficial insects, and interesting critters are “made for each other.” Research shows that native wildlife prefers native plants. -
Save Water
Once established, many native plants need minimal irrigation beyond normal rainfall. -
Low Maintenance
Low maintenance landscaping methods are a natural fit with native plants that are already adapted to the local environment. Look forward to using less water, little to no fertilizer, little to no pesticides, less pruning, and less of your time. -
Pesticide Freedom
Native plants have developed their own defenses against many pests and diseases. Since most pesticides kill indiscriminately, beneficial insects become secondary targets in the fight against pests. Reducing or eliminating pesticide use lets natural pest control take over and keeps garden toxins out of our creeks and watersheds. -
Support Local Ecology
As development replaces natural habitats, planting gardens, parks, and roadsides with New York native plants can provide a “bridge” to nearby remaining wildlands.
Landscaping with native plants can significantly reduce the need for pesticides. Native plants are often resistant to harmful insects and attract beneficial creatures, allowing predatory insects to naturally control pests that would otherwise damage non-native plants. Additionally, because native plants are already adapted to the local climate, they require less water, special soil, or fertilizer. This makes it easier, more cost-effective, and chemical-free to maintain your garden.
When an insect or animal is destroying a garden or wreaking havoc on a lawn, potent chemical pesticides might seem like the obvious tool for dealing with the problem. But are they absolutely necessary?
Non-chemical alternatives exist for most pesticides! Prior to the 1940s, synthetic pesticides did not exist. Instead, people created healthy and safe landscapes using cultural, biological, or mechanical methods. Many of these time-tested methods still work.
We’ve put together a detailed list of alternative insecticides and pesticides. Check the Deep Dive tab and give them a try!
For more information, the Swampscott Conservancy offers resources on their website, including details on their Annual Native Plant Sale, Gardens Around Town, and Native Plant Lists.