Save Money, Time & the Planet - Purchase Native Plants

When I was planning my wedding, I made a list of my favorite flowers – sweet peas, peonies, ranunculus’ – and took that to my florist.  Of course, she could order any of those things for my October wedding, but at almost double the cost of say dahlias.  Because those flowers weren’t grown locally and weren't in season, they just cost more.

The same holds true for your landscaping.  Choosing native plants saves money, time and the planet.   They grow with little maintenance, since they evolved to grow naturally in your climate and can tolerate your weather conditions.  They work well together.  They require less water and personal tending.  They have adapted to local conditions and local bugs, and don’t require fertilizers or pesticides. 

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency estimates that the cost of maintaining an average lawn is $700/year. Add shrubs and/or flowers and the cost increases.  Since native landscapes take care of themselves, you will save on routine maintenance costs.

Plant Native cites a U.S. News and World Report that states a 1000 square foot lawn (for example, 20' x 50') requires 10,000 gallons of water per summer to maintain a "green" look.  Of course, this means an increased water bill.

For a regional plant list, check out Plant Native's directory or visit your local garden center.