Plant a Native Plant Garden

Have you heard of native plants? These are plants that have been growing in your region or ecosystem type (coast, wetland, plain, etc.) without having been introduced by humans. If we look at any fruit or vegetable in the supermarket, chances are that crop is not native, but exotic, and was brought to your region by humans long after other native plants had been growing there.

So why are native plants important? Once these plants are established where you’ve planted them, they need very little management, as they are already adapted to the region you’re in. This means you will need to use fewer pesticides, fertilizer, and water to keep them alive. These plants also provide habitat and food for local pollinators, which in turn help to keep these plants growing. Given how well these plants are used to the region already, they will be stronger and less likely to die from plant diseases (think of this as a kind of plant immune system). Their strong root systems mean they can easily grow further downward into the soil, so the soil does not become compacted, and the plant can reach more nutrients and water. As you know, nutrients, water, drainage, and air are all really important parts of soil and plant health! Any native garden you plant will already be well on its way to being regenerative, since you will need to use fewer pesticides, fertilizer, and water. However, remember to incorporate other regenerative methods too, like composting and mulching, to ensure your garden’s soil is healthy. Take a look at the resources provided to get started on your native plant garden.