Why Landscape with Native Plants?

Much of our current landscapes are merely cultural choices (or fads) which began back when our colonists settled in America.  They brought over a few remembrances of home -- their plants from Europe.  Ever since, Americans have had to add water, fertilizers and herbicides to get these unnatural plants to survive in their unnatural environment.

We spend WAY too much time mowing grass within an inch of it's life, snipping "wayward" branches, and killing anything that grows or flies that we see as invading our perfectly designed environment.  In recent years, this has begun to change.  No mere fad, landscaping with native plants is attracting converts all over.  Why?  It's common sense!!  It's environmentally friendly and a lot less work -- simply, it's working with Mother Nature, not against her.  Prairie grasses, meadows, and woodland wildflowers control erosion and create rich organic soils.  They help to conserve scarce resources of money, energy and water by minimizing (and in some situations eliminating) watering, mowing, and the use of herbicides, insecticides, and fertilizers.

Native landscaping is not only good for the environment, it's good for YOU.  Close your eyes for a few seconds and picture your home nestled in a meadow with drifts of prairie grasses and a beautiful woodland as a backdrop.  Right now, with your eyes closed, you are surrounded with a sea of color and beauty; you are also rediscovering an understanding of and a tie to your land.  This kind of grounding can bring a sense of peace in this otherwise turbulent world we live in.  You'll also provide a year-round habitat for all types of plants and wildlife, some of which are rare, endangered species.  This will be a joy for both you and them.

Loretta

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