Why Native Plants are the Better Choice
for a Changing World
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Photo: Tricia Forgrave |
ISN Outreach Specialist, Emily Cook, recently had the chance to collaborate with
Nature Change again - Nature Change is a multimedia platform encouraging discussion on conservation efforts in northwest Michigan. The recently published photo essay titled, "Why Native Plants are the Better Choice for a Changing World" focuses on the reasons why one should be proactive in their landscaping decisions as spring approaches. The main points are outlined below. However, if you are interested in reading the entire article, please visit the
Nature Change website and consider signing-up for their updates!
Native Plants are Better Adapted to Most Growing Conditions
After some initial effort to establish, you can expect less-frequent watering, drought tolerance, and less upkeep.
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| Researchers dragging for ticks in Japanese barberry. |
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Attract the Good Insects and Avoid the Bad
Many pollinators have evolved along side the plant species native to this region resulting in a garden full of bumblebees and butterflies. On the flip-side, some invasive species have been linked to pests. Japanese barberry is the perfect example. Areas dense with Japanese barberry have been found to have up to 10 times as many black-legged ticks as areas without barberry.
Native Plants Preserve our Natural Resource Heritage
As gardeners and landscapers, we can respond to changing climate conditions and help preserve the habitats and natural resources of our region by choosing and planting native species selectively and consistently.
Get Beautiful and Diverse Color During the Entire Growing Season
If your goal is to have a variety of color, plant height, and bloom shape, there are dozens of options in the native plant category.
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| Bumblee bee on native sneezeweed. Photo: Emily Cook |
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