for the worst invasive plants in Mecklenburg County.
See see a list of the worst invasive plants for the Southeast(www.invasive.org/eastern/), or for the federal program(www.invasivespecies.gov).
To learn more about Wildlife And Industry Together habitat program, click on W.A.I.T., which is sponsored by the North Carolina Wildlife Federation Program.
What Are Native Plants?
Native plants are those that adapted over time naturally in North America. More specifically, native plants in a particular area are those that were growing naturally in the area before humans introduced plants from distant places. In eastern and central North America, native plants typically grew in communities with species adapted to similar soil, moisture, and weather conditions. Some of the widespread communities included oak-hickory-chestnut and beech-maple forests, tall grass and short grass prairies, and freshwater marshes. Additional communities occupied specialized niches, including savannahs, fens, bogs, flood plains and alpine areas.
Why Landscape with Native Plants?
Landscaping with native plants has several appealing factors.
Native Plants Save Energy
Native plants have adapted to local conditions over thousands of years. Vigorous and hardy, they can survive winter cold and summer heat. Once established, they require no irrigation or fertilization. They are resistant to most pests and diseases, which decreases the need for pesticides and herbicides. Thus, native plants suit today's interest in "low-maintenance" gardening and landscaping.
Native Plants Stay Put
Each native plant species is a member of a community that includes other plants, animals and microorganisms. The natural balance keeps each species in check, allowing it to thrive in conditions where it is suited, but preventing it from running amok. Thus, native species rarely become invasive, as plants introduced from other areas can be. Click on invasive plants to see a large list of ones to avoid, or see our brochure for the worst invasive plants in Mecklenburg County. Visit the South East Exotic Pest Plant Council(www.se-eppc.org), for more information also the North Carolina Botanical Garden(www.ncbg.unc.edu).
Native Plants Support the Ecosystem & Improve Water Quality
Native plants provide food and shelter for birds, butterflies and other desirable wildlife. Many help to enrich the soil. Their root systems help rainfall percolate into the soil, reducing erosion and runoff. Native vegetation is particularly effective as buffers along streams, lakes and wetlands and helps in flood zones and erosion prone sites.
Native Plants Are Interesting
The diversity of native plants includes interesting flowers and foliage. Native shrubs and trees provide a variety of heights, shapes and textures in the landscape. Many provide winter interest through their bark or seedpods. Another dimension of native plants is their historical and cultural interest. Some plants played a significant role in Native American culture and in the European exploration and settlement. Many species have value as food or medicine and others have been used for cordage, textiles, dyestuffs, or similar domestic purposes. Native plants can provide children and adults with a tangible link to the past and to the future.
Reclaiming Shamrock Park from the Dirty Dozen! Beautiful native plants take the place of invasive overgrowth.
