Native or indigenous plants are adapted to the local soil, rainfall and temperature conditions, and have developed natural defenses to withstand many types of insects and diseases. Because of these traits, native plants will grow without a lot of maintenance. Using native plants helps preserve the balance of natural ecosystems. In contrast many natural ecosystems have been degraded by exotic, or non-native plants introduced from other parts of the world. Some of these introduced plants are invasive, meaning they do not have any natural controls.
Invasive plants can spread rapidly and smother native vegetation.
Ecosystems impacted by invasive exotic plants have less wildlife and plant diversity than unaffected systems. Most nurseries carry some native plants. A few nurseries specialize in native plants and carry a greater selection than traditional nurseries. Plants should never be collected from the wild unless the area is being cleared for development. Identify areas of unused lawn that could be naturalized for less maintenance and better wildlife habitat.