Native Plant Gardening
Wistendahl Native Plant Garden, Athens, OH
Native plants are adapted to the local climate and soil conditions where they naturally occur. These important plant species provide nectar, pollen, and seeds that serve as food for native butterflies, insects, birds and other animals. Incorporating native plants into your own landscape can help support local wildlife.
Native plants are also advantageous, because they:
Do not require fertilizers and require fewer pesticides than lawns.
Require less water than lawns and help prevent erosion.
-The deep root systems of many native plants increase the soil's capacity to store water. Native plants can significantly reduce water runoff and, consequently, flooding. Deep roots also act as a "pump" to pull nutrients back to the surface.
Help reduce air pollution.
-Native plantscapes do not require mowing. Native plants sequester, or remove, carbon from the air.
Provide shelter and food for wildlife.
Promote biodiversity and stewardship of our natural heritage.
Are beautiful and increase scenic values!
