Embracing Native Plants: A Greener Approach to Gardening
Brenda Ortmann, Anoka County Extension Master Gardener
Lush green lawns have long been the idyllic image of the American home. As we face climate change-induced heat waves and water scarcity, it’s time to rethink our gardening practices. Shifting our mindset from conventional lawns and non-native gardens to native species can benefit both our environment and our well-being.
Traditional lawns, often dominated by Kentucky bluegrass, demand a lot of water, fertilizers, and pesticides. They also require frequent mowing, and their uniformity leaves little room for biodiversity. What if we could transform our yards into more vibrant, ecologically rich spaces that help support local wildlife, conserve resources, and even reduce pollution?
Enter xeriscaping and native plants. Xeriscaping is a method of landscape design with the goal of creating water-efficient yards that require little irrigation beyond what is provided naturally. The most important aspect of xeriscaping is selecting appropriate plants for the specific climate. In arid regions, homeowners mimic the desert environment by using specifically placed rocks, pebbles, and native plants such as cacti. In areas with more rainfall, homeowners incorporate meadows with no-mow grasses and native flowers to attract local pollinators such as bees and butterflies.
Native plants play a key role in creating sustainable, water-efficient yards because they have evolved to thrive in local climates, soil types, and conditions. They are readily established and naturally hardier than non-native plants, and they require minimal care once established. Unlike conventional grasses, native plants also provide essential spaces for wildlife. By reducing your lawn and incorporating more native plants, you will say goodbye to excessive watering, mowing, fertilizing, and pesticides and say hello to more pollinators.
Tips for creating your native paradise:
Assess your needs: Consider your water supply, local climate, and surrounding environment. Choose native plants that suit your specific conditions.
Include diverse plantings: A well-designed xeriscaped garden includes a variety of native plants suited to the available water supply. Think about local pollinators as you select your species of trees, shrubs, and perennials and consider the water requirements for each plant.
Create tiny wildlands: Imagine the impact of turning half of the 40 million acres of lawns in the United States into smaller areas abundant in native grasses, shrubs, and other water-wise plants. While this might sound overwhelming, we can all start by making small changes such as adding a native garden or planting some pollinator-friendly shrubs. Collectively, small changes make a big impact on biodiversity.
Utilize local resources: The University of Minnesota Extension can help you find the correct plants for your space. The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources keeps a statewide list of local native plant suppliers, landscapers, and restoration consultants.
Transitioning from manicured lawns to native landscapes means embracing a more sustainable future. With native species, your yard will become a haven for life-buzzing insects, colorful birds, and resilient plants while you contribute to a healthier ecosystem. Break free from the conventional lawn mold and help create a legacy of environmental stewardship with native plants, one yard at a time.