Some trees in the landscape include a White Cedar and a Red Maple. They are hardier, better adapted to the regional climate, pest problems are greatly reduced and native birds and animals prefer to use these plants for their feeding and nesting. The EPA display and accompanying literature seeks to educate the homeowner on simple steps to take right in his or her own backyard that will protect the environment. Research available plants through reputable nurseries, garden clubs, agricultural extension services, botanic gardens and libraries. Consider native species first.
Exotic plants can be high maintenance or biological nightmares that take over the landscape.
Some overlooked native plants to the Mid-Atlantic area include the Sugar Maple, White Oak, Swamp Oak, Persimmon, Sassafras, Witch Hazel, Mapleleaf Viburnum, Shagbark Hickory and Native Azaleas and Rhododendrons. Avoid the Norway Maple, Ailanthus, Mulberry, Japanese Honeysuckle and Oriental Bittersweet. Plant trees and evergreens to shade buildings and paved areas, to keep them cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter. Effective plantings can reduce heating and cooling costs by as much as 30 percent. Keep lawn areas to a minimum as they require maintenance, frequent mowing, watering and application of fertilizers, herbicides and pesticides.