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Whether you are creating a garden from scratch, or simply adding some variety, please consider choosing native plants to enhance your local ecosystem. Not only are they easy to care for, many natives are a good choice when dealing with difficult terrain, such as steep slopes, deeply shaded areas, or rocky soil. Here are just a few of the benefits of going native in your garden:
- Low Maintenance – Native plants have evolved to thrive in the local climate, weathering heat, cold, drought, and floods. You won’t waste hours (and dollars) watering and there’s no need for pruning, fertilizers, or pesticides as they are uniquely adapted to deal with the region’s soil, pests, and diseases. That’s better for the environment and for you.
- Help Wildlife – When using native plants in the landscape, you are enhancing the natural habitat of local wildlife by providing familiar food and shelter for birds, insects, squirrels, and other fauna.
- Reduce Erosion & Runoff – Native plants tend to have deep roots that can stabilize and anchor soil (especially on steep slopes) and help to capture and filter pollutants from stormwater runoff.
- Rarely Invasive – It is rare that a native species will overrun your garden. Plants that have evolved together tend to develop efficient means of co-existing in which each plant’s growing habits will not interfere with the other, creating a harmonious ecosystem.
- They’re Beautiful! – With hundreds of native plants to choose from, you’ll be able to showcase a variety of textures, heights, and colors.
Learn More:
Native Plant Guide for Western Washington Yards