WHY GO NATIVE?
    There are so many attractive flowers to plant in our gardens that you may find yourself with far too little space and time.  Why should you invest valuable resources in planting native species?  Basically, every native that you protect or nurture helps to maintain the genetic diversity of our indigenous plant population.  Additionally, this benefit spills over into the animal kingdom where each species relies heavily on particular plants to provide food and shelter.  In worst case scenarios, exotic invasive plants conquer vast territories, smother indigenous plant life, and force the local animal population to move elsewhere or perish if they are unable to adapt.

    How does this relate to our own home gardens?  Most of us plant gardens for our own pleasure:  to provide beautiful flowers, foliage interest, fall color or edible fruits and berries.  Cultivated plants are bred exclusively to cater to our desires, so it is not surprising that many traits specifically important to wildlife are lost in the process. If you include a variety of native plants in your garden, the birds and butterflies dependent upon them will beat a path to your door.  If this interests you, select a native next time you fill a space relinquished by a cultivar.

    Although you may find that some native plants flourish with little effort, others can be quite challenging.  If you are careful in selecting a suitable plant for your site, it will become established and you can enjoy its carefree existence.  The historical adaptation of this plant to the extremes of your climate will allow for a more vigorous life and greater longevity.

    Ideally one should plant natives obtained from a local source but finding a particular plant may be difficult.  Digging from the wild is discouraged to protect natural populations from depletion, although rescue operations are an exception to this general rule.  Locating commercial nurseries that supply native plants will become easier only if demand increases, so let your favorite nursery know of your interest.

    Any effort you make to protect or expand the native plant population will improve the ecological health of the surrounding environment.

Questions/comments on this page to:  VLHerzberg@valley.net

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