Reason #29: Native plants are important.
As I cultivate my micro-flower farm here in northern Illinois, one of the many things I’ve learned is how vital native plants are to our local ecosystems.
While I of course also grow flowers whose species did not originate here, it’s the native varieties that we can count on not only thriving in our soil and climate, but also playing a crucial role in supporting the environment. Here’s my mini deep dive (and soapbox?) into why native plants matter and how they can benefit your garden and the planet.
Understanding Native Plants
Native plants have evolved in a specific region over thousands of years. Therefore, they are adapted to the local soil conditions, weather patterns, and pests, making them resilient and low-maintenance options for gardening. In northern Illinois, we have a rich tapestry of native flora, from the vibrant Purple Coneflower (Echinacea purpurea) to the beautiful Black-eyed Susan (Rudbeckia hirta). I’m also growing Harebell, Blue Sage, Wild Quinine, and others. These hardy plants, and all native plants, inspire us with their beauty and profoundly impact ecological health.
Benefits of Native Plants
Supporting Local Wildlife. One of the most significant reasons to embrace native plants is their ability to support local wildlife. Birds, butterflies, bees, and other beneficial insects have symbiotic relationships with native flora. Many native flowering plants serve as crucial food sources and habitats for pollinators, essential for reproducing over 75% of the world’s flowering plants. By planting natives, you create a welcoming environment for these creatures, helping to sustain their populations.
Biodiversity Conservation. Increasing the diversity of native plants in our gardens contributes to overall biodiversity. Biodiversity is vital for ecosystem stability; it enhances resilience to pests, diseases, and climate change. By replacing non-native species that may dominate and disrupt local ecosystems, native plants create balanced environments where various species can thrive.
Soil Health and Erosion Control. Native plants are deeply rooted and designed to withstand local weather conditions, including bouts of heavy rain and drought. Their extensive root systems stabilize the soil, preventing erosion and reducing runoff. This contributes to healthier, more sustainable landscapes, especially in areas prone to flooding or soil degradation.
Water Conservation. Because they have evolved to thrive in this particular area with our particular (average) amount of precipitation, native plants require less water and fewer chemical inputs when compared to non-native varieties. Once established, they often survive with minimal irrigation, helping conserve precious water resources and reduce the need for chemical fertilizers and pesticides. This makes native plants a sustainable choice for environmentally conscious gardeners.
Aesthetic Appeal. Beyond their ecological benefits, native plants offer immense beauty. They come in stunning colors, shapes, and sizes, creating captivating landscapes that change with the seasons. Imagine a garden filled with the cheerful yellows of native Wild Senna (Senna hebecarpa) in late summer or the striking pinks of native Wild Bergamot (Monarda fistulosa) attracting hummingbirds and butterflies. These plants provide not only aesthetic pleasure but also increase the ecological value of your yard.
A Call to Action: Supporting Local Flower Farms
The point of this blog post is not to say that growing non-native flowers is bad. But it is to promise you this. If I have the choice between a native plant, and a non-native, and all other decision factors are the same or similar (in other words, I can get the same or similar flower type), I will choose the native variety every. single. time.
Every native seed I plant is a testament to my commitment to sustainability and ecological responsibility. By choosing to buy native flowers, you support local agriculture and contribute to the conservation of our natural habitats. When you embrace native plants in your gardens, you help create a greener, more sustainable future for all of us.
Shopping local means more than just bringing home beautiful flowers; it means investing in local ecosystems, supporting pollinators, and encouraging biodiversity. Think about the difference you can make by transforming your home and garden with native blooms.
Conclusion
The significance of native plants cannot be overstated. They are not just placeholders in our gardens but powerful allies in the fight for ecological balance and sustainability. By embracing native flora, we can cultivate a healthier environment that benefits wildlife, enhances our landscapes, and fosters a connection to the earth.
As I continue nurturing my micro-farm, I invite you to join me on this journey towards ecological harmony. Discover the beauty of native flowers and their importance to our local ecosystem. Together, let’s create spaces that celebrate the intricate web of life surrounding us, all while enjoying the fragrant, vibrant blooms that only native plants can provide. Thank you for supporting local flowers—your commitment makes every blossom matter!
PS - If this post has you inspired and immediately ready to place a gorgeous, locally grown, nature-inspired floral arrangement on your dining room table, I’ve got you covered. Or, if you want more inspiration and to see a ton of stunning local flowers, follow us on Instagram.
———
Wait, there are 100 reasons you want to be a flower farmer?! Why, yes. Yes there are. And you can read the full explanation and reason #1 here.
