Native Gardening Benefits

Let nature rock your garden.

By planting native plants and flowers instead of the typical ornamental (and often invasive) plants commonly found at most nurseries and garden store, you can you plant a thriving eco system right in your yard or patio .

One of the primary advantages of planting native species, according to Professor Doug Tallamy, author of the book Bringing Nature Home is their role in supporting local insect populations. Insects are at the heart of the food web, particularly for birds. Tallamy’s work highlights that over 96% of terrestrial bird species feed insects to their young. Without an abundant insect population, many bird species would struggle to survive. Native plants, unlike most non-native species, have co-evolved with local insects, providing the specific food sources and habitat they need. This mutualistic relationship is what makes native plants so crucial to the success of local wildlife (Tallamy, 2020).

Another advantage of native plants that Tallamy emphasized is their resilience and adaptability. Native species are well-suited to local climates, soil types, and weather patterns, which makes them more sustainable in the long run. Because they evolved in these specific environments, native plants often require less water, fertilizer, and pesticide use compared to non-native species. This not only conserves resources but also reduces the harmful impacts of chemical runoff into waterways (Tallamy, 2019).

Additionally, native plants support biodiversity at a much higher rate than non-natives. Tallamy explained that while many ornamental plants are popular for their aesthetic appeal, they often offer little to no ecological benefit. Non-native species are frequently poor at supporting local wildlife because they lack the right chemistry to serve as food or habitat for insects and animals. In contrast, native plants provide food, shelter, and breeding grounds for various organisms, from butterflies to bees to mammals. Tallamy emphasizes that homeowners should aim to plant at least 70% native species in their landscapes to effectively support wildlife and maintain a healthy, thriving ecosystem (Tallamy, 2020).

Beyond their ecological advantages, native plants also contribute to the cultural and aesthetic richness of a region.  Tallamy stressed that many people have become disconnected from their local landscapes, favoring exotic plants that may look attractive but fail to reflect the natural beauty and ecological integrity of the area. By planting native species, gardeners and landscapers can help preserve the unique flora of their region, fostering a deeper connection to place and promoting environmental stewardship.

Tallamy’s message is clear: to sustain wildlife, reduce environmental harm, and foster more resilient ecosystems, we must prioritize native plants. His research has provided compelling evidence that simple changes in how we manage our yards and public spaces can have profound impacts on local biodiversity. By planting natives, we can create habitats that support a broad range of species, contributing to healthier ecosystems and a more sustainable future.

Continue learning about California native plants and their vital role in restoring nature from your local chapter of the California Native Plant Society (CNPS). CNPS Chapters host annual native plants sales and educational events year round. In addition the CNPS also maintains the CalScape website, a database of California native plant information. Calscape also offers a map of California native nurseries.  Native nurseries specialize in providing native plants for your landscaping needs. 

For those interested in learning more Doug Tallamys’books bringing nature home,  Bringing Nature Home, Nature’s Best Hope, The Living Landscape, and The Nature of Oaks, provide detailed insights into the role native plants play in our ecosystems and practical advice on how to make a difference in your own garden.