Choosing the right plants for a garden or landscape is a key element to successful gardening. For best results, gardeners should match their plant selections to local environmental conditions.
Other things to consider when plant shopping include resistance to disease, tolerance of insect pests, and the ability to adapt to weather extremes. Using native plants is one way to create a more sustainable garden environment. Keep in mind that a sustainable garden can also include non-native plants, but there are advantages to using local flora.
In general, native plants are well adapted to the local climate. The plants are better able to cope with the conditions naturally experienced in an Oklahoma landscape, including drought, extreme heat, wind and poor soils. The deep root system of native grasses like Switchgrass allows it to reach water held deep in the soil when rainfall is limited. Because native plants have adapted to local conditions, they’re healthier and better able to resist pest problems. In addition, native plants have evolved with common insects in the landscape and developed ways to tolerate insect pressure. Butterfly Weed hosts large populations of monarch caterpillars each season, yet this age-old relationship doesn’t threaten the host plant’s survival.
Gardening can be a lot of work, but once established, native plants rarely need fertilizers or supplemental watering. Natives also require fewer pesticides than traditional plantings, making them easier to maintain. This is good for the environment and saves time and money.
Creating a diverse plant environment with multiple species is as important to pest management as plant selection. Most garden pests are specific to a single plant species or family and don’t usually occur on a broad range of plant species. Increasing plant diversity with native species is a good way to reduce pest problems.
Not only are native plants attractive in the landscape, but they also provide shelter and food for wildlife, attracting a variety of birds, butterflies and other wildlife. This increases the area’s biodiversity and promotes stewardship of our natural heritage. The beauty of native wildflowers and grasses creates a sense of place and offers a connection to the natural environment. Planting native species is an opportunity to reestablish Oklahoma’s plant heritage and the wildlife associated with it in our own backyards.
Remember, native plants can be just as beautiful as non-natives and add diversity and texture to the landscape. The bonus for gardeners is that they’re easier to maintain while still adding a wow factor.
By OSU Extension
