You are more likely to be successful if you use plants that suit the site conditions instead of making the site fit the plant. More and more people are discovering the beauty of using plants native to their area. Native plants are beautiful and functional. Plants that are native to your region evolved there. Planting native plants helps preserve biodiversity.
Biodiversity refers to the multitude of different forms of life.
Scientists believe that maintaining biodiversity is important for the health and stability of the planet. When you garden with native plants you help preserve another piece of the great web of life. You are also less likely to plant weedy, invasive plants such as purple loosestrife and Japanese knotweed that can decrease biodiversity by outcompeting and displacing the native plants. Gardening with plants native to New York makes our landscapes unique. Native plants provide a visual connection between our landscapes and the surrounding field and forest.