EcoBlog
The latest thinking on ecological landscapes. Useful tips to improve our environment
Multiple Duty Native Plants: The EcoBeneficial Gardener’s Secret Weapon
It’s that time of year when we start to think about spring planting. How do you choose the best plants to improve the ecosystem in your own yard? Choosing native plants which are “environmental workhorses” will not only help improve your ecosystem, but will also reward you with more birds, butterflies, beneficial insects and other critters in your yard. When considering plants, first ask:
- Is the plant native to my region, supporting the natural ecosystem?
- Is this the right plant for the site I am considering (sun level, moisture conditions, soil type, hardiness, etc.)
Then, see if this plant is an environmental workhorse:
Does the plant offer nectar and pollen for bees, beneficial insects, hummingbirds, etc?
- Does the plant produce nuts, seeds, fruit, berries, etc., providing a food source for wildlife?
- Does the plant offer a nesting site or cover for birds, or other wildlife?
- Will the plant help with erosion control and storm water runoff?
If a plant provides several of these functions, it’s a great candidate for an EcoBeneficial Garden.
Happy Planting from Kim Eierman at EcoBeneficial!
Photo: Honeybee on Common Buttonbush
Photo credit: wolfpix/Flickr
More from EcoBlog
5 Ecological Landscape Resolutions Worth Making
Losing weight and curbing bad habits don’t have to be the only resolutions you make for the New Year. How about adopting some resolutions that will have a positive impact on the environment around you? Here are 5 ecological landscape resolutions worth making: Resolution#1: Become a Climate Change Steward –…
Native Plant Research at the Mt. Cuba Center with George Coombs
Great garden plant or garden slacker? This is a question that the Mt. Cuba Center in Hockessin, Delaware has sought to answer, giving gardeners and green industry professionals a helping hand in selecting native plants. Since 2002, Mt. Cuba, has conducted native plant research in their trial gardens, examining native…
The Nativar Conundrum: New Research on Natives vs. Native Cultivars with Dr. Doug Tallamy
Planting trees or shrubs this fall? How will you go about making your plant selection? If you have been reading the EcoBeneficial website, hopefully you have been inspired to choose native plants. Beyond that, your choices might be more complicated – should you choose plants that are native to your…