Therefore, they have adapted to the climate, geography and animal populations of the region. Native plants provide habitat to and are a source of food for animals, such as birds, butterflies and mammals. Native landscaping makes an effort to reestablish native plant populations to a certain area, whether it be as small as your backyard or as large as a nature preserve. Some benefits of planting native plants include the following. Native plants save energy and reduce pollution Native plants do not need fertilizer or irrigation , and they can usually resist most native pests and diseases.
Plants also absorb rainfall into the soil, reducing soil erosion and runoff .
Native plants provide a diverse landscape Because native plants are part of a community that includes other plants and animals, a natural balance has developed between the living organisms. Therefore, single species of native plants don't dominate a landscape, like the non-native purple loosestrife does. Native plants help the animals As discussed earlier, native plants provide shelter and food to birds, butterflies and other wildlife, promoting biodiversity . In contrast, mowed lawns are of little use to most wildlife. Because many animal habitats today are being lost to urban development, consciously creating or maintaining a habitat full of native plants can be of great help and relief to animals looking for a home.