Conventional landscaping practices
are a threat to all living things:
plants, animals, and humans alike.
Excessive water use, chemical runoff and groundwater contamination are the major consequences of continuing to landscape with non-native and invasive species. The simple act of replacing them with native plants, biologically suited to your climate, soil conditions, and to the seasonal cycle of your area can:
REDUCE OR ELIMINATE CHEMICAL USE
Approximately 200 million pounds of pesticides are used by American households and businesses each year. Studies have shown that when chemical fertilizers are mixed with even a single pesticide, their harmful effects (including immune, neurological and endocrine deficiencies and cancer in humans) are compounded. The use of native plant species significantly reduces the need for herbicides, pesticides and fertilizers by 90%.
CONSERVE WATER
Nationwide, landscape irrigation is estimated to account for nearly one-third of all residential water use, totaling nearly 9 billion gallons per day. By using those plants that evolved for survival within your local climate and environment, you can reduce the need for irrigation by 75%. This is especially important in an era of extreme climate change and water shortages.
PRESERVE THE NATURAL LANDSCAPE
Approximately 200 million pounds of pesticides are used by American households and businesses each year. Studies have shown that when chemical fertilizers are mixed with even a single pesticide, their harmful effects (including immune, neurological and endocrine deficiencies and cancer in humans) are compounded. The use of native plant species significantly reduces the need for herbicides, pesticides and fertilizers by 90%.
Our goal is to educate people about the importance and cost-effectiveness of utilizing native plant species in home and commercial landscaping, sidewalk plantings, parks, gardens, and open-space projects.
We use an interdisciplinary approach to consult with individuals, businesses, and agencies, teaching and advising them on how to use native plant species to improve and protect public health and conserve local wildlife populations.
PRIVATE PROPERTY OWNERS: HOMEOWNERS AND BUSINESSES
Landscaping with native plants is not just better for the environment; it’s a lot easier on your wallet.
Native plants use less water and fertilizer. They don’t need to be replaced every year (they are perennials) and require very little – if any – pruning and trimming. Native plants can also provide a natural defense against pests, which means less money spent on pesticides.
NURSERIES
It’s not enough for us to grow and distribute native plants locally. We want to see native plants sold in every nursery around the country.
Nurseries are critical to the promotion and proliferation of native plants for use in residential landscaping. We offer a seed exchange option for small nurseries and individual native plant growers. This is an excellent way to continue to spread and enhance the diversity of native plants throughout our region, especially for harder to find species.
