Want to Save Money on Gardening? Plant Native!
Do you struggle to keep plants alive? Or can't figure out what you're doing wrong with plant care? The best solution is to invest in native plants. These plants thrive easily because they're naturally adapted to local climate and soil conditions.
And here’s the best part: you save a ton of money on gardening by planting native plants.
What Are Native Plants?
Native plants are species that have adapted naturally to local climate and soil conditions. In North America, native plants are specifically those that grew in a region before European settlement (Learn more about colonial roots of grass lawns).
Native plants are so well adapted to local conditions that they need very little human care. They require far less attention than exotic or non-native plants.
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How Can Native Plants Help You Save Money?
Compared to traditional lawns, native plants require less water since their deep root system helps soils store more water. You probably would have to water them in the first year but after that, rainwater would be enough for them to survive. This would help you save on water bills.
Also read: 19 Drought-Tolerant Vegetables and Fruit
Native plants also save you money on fertilizers and pesticides. Since they are naturally adapted to local soils, they thrive without additional chemicals. This not only reduces maintenance costs but also protects the environment from harmful substances. By avoiding these chemicals in your garden, you also protect the health of your family and pets — potentially saving on medical and veterinary bills.
Also read: 5 Native Alternatives to Imported Flowers
Unlike lawns, native plants also do not require any mowing. That helps you save time and money that you would invest in buying, running, and maintaining the gas (or electric) mowers. Gas-powered lawnmowers also contribute to air and noise pollution.
When Should You Plant Native Plants?
Since these plants know the soil and the climatic conditions pretty well, you can sow them any time of the year. But if you have to choose a season, fall is your best bet. Increased rainfall and warm soil make it an ideal sowing condition. There’s no summer heat and the upcoming winter’s cold period can even help some seeds germinate.