What Are Native Plants?
Hundreds of years ago, “native” plants covered Minnesota's prairies. Native plants are grasses, foliage, and trees indigenous to our region that evolved to support our ecosystems. Native plants differ from non-natives because of their complex relationship with other local organisms, acting as critical components in maintaining nature’s delicate ecological balance. Non-native plants do not perform the ecological services that native plants do so well. Native plants help clean water with their deep root systems that anchor soil and act as filters, collecting dirty run-off and separating out pollutants while absorbing water and decreasing flooding. Native plants also provide pollen, nectar, and housing materials to the bees, butterflies, and other animals that are responsible for pollinating 1/3 of the food we eat.
Think of native plants as Minnesota's original residents. Long before roads, neighborhoods, and lawns, these plants thrived across our prairies, woodlands, and shorelines. They have spent thousands of years building relationships with local birds, butterflies, bees, and other wildlife, making them perfectly suited for our climate and ecosystems. By planting natives, you're not just adding beauty to your landscape. You're helping restore a little piece of Minnesota's natural heritage right in your own backyard.
What Are the Benefits of Native Plants?
- Native plants' long roots find their own water, decrease soil compaction, absorb water, and filter out pollutants
- Native plants are as maintenance free as plants can be – no mowing, fertilizer nor pesticides
- They cost less in the long run – no fertilizers, pesticides, mowing necessary
- Native plants add beauty, habitat, food & cover – biodiversity
- Native plants reduce air pollution since they do not need to be mowed
- Native plants also reduce water pollution because fertilizers and pesticides and pesticides are not necessary
How do I create a native plant garden?
Where can I buy native plants?
How do I pick out native plants for my garden?
