Quick Key Facts about Native Plants

Native plants are an essential part of our ecosystem, providing critical habitat for wildlife and supporting pollinators. These plants have evolved over thousands of years to adapt to their local environments, making them more resilient and requiring less maintenance. They also play a crucial role in mitigating climate change by absorbing air pollutants and sequestering carbon.

However, native plants are under threat from habitat loss, invasive species, and climate change. Invasive plants can outcompete native species, leading to a loss of biodiversity and habitat destruction. Climate change is causing native plants to experience heat-related stress and changes in their growing seasons.

To help protect native plants, there are several actions you can take. Planting native species in your garden, advocating for native plants in public spaces, and supporting legislation to reduce pesticide use are all ways to make a difference. Additionally, joining local groups working to control invasive plants and being mindful of spreading seeds while hiking or camping can help prevent the spread of invasives.

If you’re interested in growing native plants in your own garden, there are resources available to help you find the right plants for your area. By using tools like the National Wildlife Federation’s Native Plant Finder or Audubon’s Native Plants Database, you can easily discover which native plants are best suited for your region.

Overall, native plants are a vital part of our environment, and by taking action to protect and support them, we can help preserve the biodiversity and health of our ecosystems for future generations.