Gardening is a popular pastime for people of all ages and living conditions. Gardeners put in hours of work to provide food for their families, beautify their backyards and help the environment.
Even though many of the plants in your garden may look beautiful, they’re not always the best for you or the environment. Garden centres may sell invasive plants or non-native species, which prevent other plants from growing or require a lot of maintenance. Often, people purchase these not knowing the harm they can do to the environment.
If you’ve been struggling to maintain your garden or put more effort into it than you would like, you should consider adding native species. These are plants that have naturally evolved and adapted to a region without human interference. Here’s why you should add more native species to your garden.
1. They Create a Wildlife Habitat
Native plants attract wildlife, leading to a more biodiverse environment. When they can thrive in their environment, like your garden or backyard, it benefits the environment and your other plants. Pollinators, like birds and bees, will frequent your property when native species are growing. They’ll help pollinate your vegetables and fruit trees for a high yield. Plus, these plants offer a home for small animals and organisms in the soil.
2. They’re Healthier for the Planet
Unlike invasive species, which often require fertilizers and pesticides to thrive, native species can thrive on their own without chemicals, making them a healthier choice for the environment. Native plants also strengthen the soil structure, which prevents erosion and water runoff. Besides that, they can store excess carbon dioxide, making for cleaner air around your home.
…click on the above link to read the rest of the article…
