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What Are Native Plants?

Plants that existed in an area prior to European settlement.

Why Native Plants?

  • Native plants have evolved over thousand of years and have adapted to the local conditions.
  • They rarely need watering and flourish without fertilizers or pesticides.
  • They provide food and habitat for wildlife.
  • They contribute to biodiversity.

How Can Native Plants Be Used?

  • Create a butterfly garden.
  • Incorporate native plants into an existing flowerbed.
  • Plant native trees and shrubs for bird habitat.
  • Create a wetland area for run-off prevention or wildlife habitat.

How Do I Start a Native Plant Garden? Native Plant Resources

  • Learn about plants native to your area.
  • Evaluate your conditions; soil, sunlight and climate.
  • Consider whether a woodland, meadow, savanna, prairie or wetland plant community is most appropriate for your conditions.

Plant Database Links

North American Digital Flora:
National Wetland Plant List

Texas A&M Bioinformatics Vascular Plant Family Finder

Poisonous Plants of North Carolina

KY Rare Plant Database

Research & Identify

Southeastern Flora Great Site!

Wildflower Info

 

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