Page 6 Spring Home Improvement • Thursday , April 25 , 2024 monticellotimes . com
Embracing native plants : A greener approach to gardening
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Recent years have witnessed a growing emphasis on eco-friendly gardening that aims to reduce reliance on chemical fertilizers and pesticides in an effort to protect the planet . One way to do so is to
By BRENDA ORTMANN Anoka County Extension Master Gardener
Lush green lawns have long been the idyllic image of the American home . As we face climate changeinduced heat waves and water scarcity , it ’ s time to rethink our gardening practices . Shifting our mindset from conventional lawns and non-native gardens to native species can benefit both our environment and our wellbeing .
Traditional lawns , often dominated by Kentucky bluegrass , demand a lot of water , fertilizers , and pesticides .
They also require frequent mowing , and their uniformity leaves little room for biodiversity . What if we could transform our yards into more vibrant , ecologically rich spaces that help support local wildlife , conserve resources , and even reduce pollution ?
Enter xeriscaping and native plants . Xeriscaping is a method of landscape design with the goal of creating water-efficient yards that require little irrigation beyond what is provided naturally . The most important aspect of xeriscaping is selecting appropriate plants for the specific climate . In arid regions , homeowners mimic the desert environment by using specifically placed rocks , pebbles , and native plants such as cacti . In areas with more rainfall , homeowners incorporate meadows with no-mow grasses and native flowers to attract local pollinators such as bees and butterflies .
Native plants play a key role in creating sustainable , water-efficient yards because they have evolved to thrive in local climates , soil types , and conditions . They are readily established and naturally hardier than non-native plants , and they require minimal care once established . Unlike conventional grasses ,
rely on native plants . See Native , Page 7