Using Native ( Riparian Corridor ) Plants Plants in the riparian corridor are greatly influenced by water , whether it is moving slowly through the soil or moving quickly in a watercourse following a rain event . Plant species found in the riparian corridor must withstand great fluctuations in the amount of water available to them throughout the year , including periodic flooding or drought . A diversity of native plants is needed in the riparian corridor to provide quality habitat and long-term stability of the ecosystem . A mix of native trees , shrubs , vines , grasses , sedges and wildflowers is ideal for maximum wildlife habitat value in the riparian corridor . Individual plants provide different habitat functions throughout the year , such as nectar production in the spring for butterflies and seed production in the fall for birds . Many riparian areas , particularly those in urban ad suburban environments , are overtaken by non-native plant species , which can result in a decrease in biodiversity and a loss of native plant species and the wildlife they support . In fact , invasion by non-native species is considered the second greatest threat to biodiversity next to habitat destruction . Each non-native plant in a given area removes habitat functions that native plants could provide .
A list of native plants for Arlington is included in the Quick Reference Guide at the end of this handbook !
We recommend that you consult an expert for help in choosing the most suitable plants for your creek , local climate , and specific conditions .
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YOU CAN HELP provide important ecosystem functions and benefits by planting native plants on your creek adjacent property . Contributing only a few native plants to the ecosystem provides beneficial native habitat . And the more connected native plants are to each other , the greater amount of diversity for wildlife !