The Hamilton County Urban Conservation Association encourages the use of native plants.  Native trees, shrubs, wildflowers, and grasses have many advantages compared to non-native species.

BENEFITS OF NATIVE PLANTS

Native plants have adapted to the local environment and will thrive in their natural setting which results in a self-sustaining, low-maintenance habitat.

Native plants provide food and shelter for wildlife which attracts butterflies, hummingbirds, songbirds, and beneficial insects.

Native plants have extensive, deep-root systems that stabilize the soil column and reduce soil erosion.

Native plants absorb more water and excess nutrients than turf grass which reduces run-off, flooding, standing water, and pollution.

Native plants are adapted to the soil and climate of the area, are hardier than non-native plants, and have developed defenses to many diseases and insect pests.  Therefore, native plants do not require the use of fertilizers, herbicides, and pesticides like non-native plants.

Native plants seldom spread to other environments and become invasive like some non-native plants.

 

 

native purple coneflower

native serviceberry tree

 

   

Copyright 2006 Hamilton County Urban Conservation Association