Native plants do not require fertilizers . Vast amounts of fertilizers are applied to lawns. This depletes oxygen in our waters, harms aquatic life and interferes with recreational uses. Native plants require fewer pesticides than lawns . Nationally, over 70 million pounds of pesticides are applied to lawns each year.
Pesticides run off lawns and can contaminate rivers and lakes.
People and pets in contact with chemically treated lawns can be exposed to pesticides. Native plants require less water than lawns . The modern lawn requires significant amounts of water to thrive. The deep root systems of many native Midwestern plants increase the soil's capacity to store water. Native plants can significantly reduce water runoff and, consequently, flooding.