Why Landscape with Native Plants?
Gardeners have a unique opportunity to address the biodiversity crisis. By adding even a few native plants to the landscape we:
- add to the resources that support wildlife
- build landscape corridors in our communities to counter habitat fragmentation
- help stormwater percolate safely into the soil rather than running superheated into rivers and streams
- garden more sustainably, with less watering and fertilizing
- create gardens that honor Indiana’s rich natural heritage
- make gardening easier, because native plants are not finicky
The Hatcher garden in suburban Indianapolis
“Indigenous plants are a significant part of a region’s geographic context. In fact, they help define it. They have proven themselves capable of surviving in a landscape for millennia. What better plants can there be, if not the natives, to confront the soil conditions, climate, pests, and diseases of the local areas?”
–Michael A. Homoya, Ecologist and Botanist, Indiana Department of Natural Resources, Division of Nature Preserves
Step Up
Do you know your field weeds and invasives?
Do you like to get your hands in the dirt?
Do you want to be a part of something big?
You could have a satisfying future as a Demonstration Garden Helper. For news of upcoming opportunities, visit the INPAWS blog or email landscaping@inpaws.org.