They are an extremely forward-looking group who recognize that their future depends on continuous research discoveries. The industry represents a promising new area for long-term federal research investment, with environmentally friendly dividends. This industry is dramatically changing the face of the American landscape, and we're all the healthier for it, both physically and psychologically. Potted plants and landscape plants offer us more oxygen to breathe. Native plant gardens are appearing more frequently from coast to coast, as customers and the industry strive for plants that require less water and fewer chemicals.
Wildlife benefits too, as native plants tend to attract more of the local fauna.
The industry also helps the environment by selling plants that are used to control erosion on roads, farms, and streambanks and to revegetate damaged lands. Some plants are even reclaiming soils damaged by heavy metals and pollutants. Trees shade homes in summer and act as wind barriers in the winter, saving electricity and other fuels. They provide a similar cooling function for the stream homes of trout and other aquatic life. The industry is always on the lookout for new varieties for all these purposes.