In life we all have choices to make. Some choices are mundane such as choosing which shirt to wear, figuring out what to make for dinner, or deciding on the next Netflix series to watch. Other choices can be much more difficult, such as at what age to retire, making medical decisions or picking a vacation destination. We also have choices regarding the plants that we grow in our yards. Those choices revolve around flower color, mature height and width, the maintenance required, and the environmental conditions in which the plant grows best. Another factor may be whether the plant is a native or non-native. This column includes a description of native plants, the benefits of planting native plants and resources for those who would like more information.
Native plants are those plants that grow naturally in our area. These plants were not introduced by humans and are part of an ecosystem that has been present for thousands of years. Native plants have formed a symbiotic relationship with insects, fungi, birds and other animals. They often depend on each other for survival. Illinois contains a variety of different types of ecosystems across the state. The east side of the state includes maple forests, the central region includes tall grass prairies and there are many bogs and wetlands in the northern part of the state. In Sun City alone, there are about 300 acres of wetlands much of which includes native plants. These wetlands and the native plants in particular play a vital role in our community. They support wildlife, help to improve the quality of the water and offer flood protection. Everything in nature is interconnected.
When incorporated into residential landscaping, native plants have many benefits. Native plants naturally require less supplemental watering. Once established because they are adapted to our environmental conditions, they save homeowners time and money by requiring less of our precious water resource.
They can also be stunningly beautiful. Freeman Kame-Meagher Forest Preserve located off of Freeman Road in Huntley is an example of the beauty that native plants can provide. The 40-acre forest preserve offers breathtaking views throughout all 12 months of the year. Showy flowers combined with seasonal colors on the leaves have the potential to add a unique dimension to our landscape.
Unsurprisingly, native plants are also good for the environment. Native trees such as maples and oaks help combat climate change by sequestering carbon dioxide. Because native plants are low-maintenance they also reduce the amount of noise and air pollution created by some landscaping maintenance equipment. Native plants after they are established require very little maintenance.
Unlike annual flowers or tropical bulbs, native plants are self-sustaining. When properly selected, the native plants will establish a strong root system, self-seed, and thrive for decades to come. They are a self-sustaining.
Poor soil can be common place in our yards. Micro-organisms in the soil thrive on the thick root systems on native plants. Over time these micro-organisms enrich a soil resulting in a healthier soil that is better able to support plant growth.
Researchers believe that in just the last 40 years, the insect population has declined by about 45%. This population decline is a direct threat to our not only our ecosystems but also our agricultural crops. Native plants support healthy pollinator populations, attract butterflies and hummingbirds. They provide a valuable food source for insects, birds and butterflies.
As with any new project, sometimes it is best to start small. Establishing even a small area of the yard dedicated to native plants makes a big difference to the environment, the amount of maintenance required and adds beauty.
Want to learn more? The Illinois Native Plant Society offers resources through their website that include information regarding native plant sales and events.
The next column will include specific native plant recommendations based on what grows well in our area. In the meantime, I need to go decide what to have for breakfast.
Kathleen Carr is the owner of The Growing Scene, Inc.,a landscaping company. She can be reached by calling 815-923-7322 or emailing her at Kathleen@thegrowingscene.com. Have a gardening question? Please contact her. She may address it in an upcoming column.
