Native Plants are What Nature Intended
Both nature and humanity wholly depend on native plants.
* Native plants are the foundation of healthy natural ecosystems. Plants, animals, fungi, and microorganisms have evolved together over millions of years. Their intricate web of relationships determines what can survive and thrive in a given place.
* Human activity has altered landscapes on an unprecedented scale, making the protection and restoration of native ecosystems essential.
* For people, planting native species creates resilient, low-maintenance landscapes that support pollinators, increase biodiversity, and help protect the ecosystems that sustain us.
Most Insects Need Specific Plants
Insect populations are declining across many regions, including many that species ecosystems depend on most. One major reason is the loss of the plants they need to survive.
The vast majority of North American caterpillar species, for example, can feed on only a small number of specific native plants.
Bolstering the Food Web
Pollinators—including birds, bees, and butterflies—that sustain local ecosystems and pollinate much of our food supply rely on native plants to complete their life cycles.
Specialized Adaptations Meet Specific Pollinator Needs
Many birds have coevolved with particular native plants and possess specialized features—such as the hummingbird’s long, curved bill and hovering flight—that allow them to reach into flowers insects cannot penetrate. They provide the only means for certain plant species to reproduce. Birds overall provide vital ecosystem services like insect pest control and long-range seed dispersal that insects generally do not.
Because native plants evolved alongside local insect pollinators, they provide the precise nectar, pollen, and host plants those species require. Many butterfly caterpillars, for example, can feed only on the leaves of specific native host plants. Insects that feed on native plants—especially caterpillars—are the primary food source for roughly 96% of terrestrial backyard birds raising their young.
Ecosystem Resilience
Native plants are naturally adapted to local climates and soils. They are better able to withstand weather extremes and changing climate conditions than many ornamental plants, while requiring far less human intervention.
Native Plant Benefits for You
Save Water and Money
Because they evolved in your region, native plants are adapted to local rainfall patterns and soil conditions, requiring less supplemental watering.
Avoid Chemicals
Once established, native plants require far less irrigation and fertilizer than turfgrass or many non-native ornamentals. They also reduce the need for chemicals that can harm people, pets, and pollinators.
Do Less Maintenance
Native plants have natural defenses against local pests and climate fluctuations, greatly reducing ongoing maintenance.
LINKS:
Why Use Native Plants
How to Create a Native Garden
Native Plant Resources
CAGC - 2026 Project
