Native Plants
Learn why native plants are the foundation for a healthy local ecosystem.
What Makes a Plant Native?
Native plants are crucial to maintaining local ecosystems because they have adapted to the local climate, soil, and wildlife over thousands of years rather than being introduced by humans. They provide essential habitat and food sources for the rest of their native food web.
The Power of Native Plants
Native plants:
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Are essential host plants for many insects, especially pollinators.
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Are built to survive in the region's climate, requiring little to no watering, fertilization, or other maintenance.
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Often have deeper root systems which manage rainwater runoff, and maintain a healthy soil structure.
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Can sequester more carbon by taking it out of our atmosphere and storing it in the soil through their deep root systems than many non-native ornamental garden plants.
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Are less prone to pest problems that may require toxic chemicals that can enter our ecosystems and waterways.
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Provide a sense of place that ties our gardens to the unique regional natural history of the land where we live and honors the importance of these species in Indigenous culture.
More Resources
Find Native Plants
The following sites offer extensive lists of common native plants in specific regions.
Learn More
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Seed Sources
The Midwest Invasive Plant Network provides a directory of nurseries in the Midwest that sell native plants and seeds. Users can download a PDF or excel sheet with detailed information.
Seed Sourcing
Midwest Invasive Plant Network
The Midwest Invasive Plant Network provides a directory of nurseries in the Midwest that sell native plants and seeds. Users can download a PDF or excel sheet with detailed information.
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