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Why You Should Consider Native Plants for Your Landscape

Why You Should Consider Native Plants for Your Landscape

Imagine stepping into your garden and being greeted by a myriad of butterflies dancing in the air, the soft rustle of leaves, and the sweet scent of blooming flowers that have been a part of this land for centuries. This is the magic of native plants, and this could be your reality. 

Choosing native plants for your garden is not just a trend; it is a commitment to sustainability, beauty, and the local ecosystem. Native plants are those that have evolved naturally in a region over thousands of years. For our purposes here in the Chicago area, our region is the Great Lakes. Plants that have evolved here are the cornerstone of our local ecology: supporting wildlife, improving soil health, and conserving water. 

The Benefits of Native Plants

Native plants are uniquely adapted to the local climate and soil conditions. In many cases, they require less water, fertilizer, and maintenance compared to non-native species. By choosing native plants, you can save on water bills, reduce your use of garden chemicals, and enjoy a garden that thrives with minimal intervention.
One of the standout benefits of native plants is their ability to support local wildlife. Birds, butterflies, and bees have evolved alongside these plants and rely on them for food and habitat. Imagine your garden alive with the fluttering of monarch butterflies, the buzz of bees, and the songs of native birds. This is not just a dream; it’s a promise that native plants can fulfill.

Efficient Water Use

Many native plants are champions of efficient water use. Specifically, the plants native to our Illinois prairies have deep root systems that allow them to access water from deeper soil layers, making them more drought-tolerant. This not only helps in conserving water but also prevents soil erosion and improves soil health. By choosing native plants, you are actively contributing to water conservation and soil stabilization in our community.

Soil Health and Erosion Control

The deep root systems of native plants also play a crucial role in soil health. Because of the depth the roots reach, when the plants die back and the roots breakdown, oxygen and carbon are added to the soil, improving its structure, and promoting nutrient cycling. This results in healthier plants and a more resilient garden. By covering the soil with their foliage and deeply rooting, these plants can help in preventing soil loss by preventing wind and water erosion. Poor soil quality is a frequent problem in urban and suburban areas, plaguing gardeners in the Chicagoland area communities.

Creating a Beautiful and Sustainable Garden

A common misconception about native plants is that they are less attractive than non-native ornamental plants. However, native plants can be just as beautiful and diverse but depending on the plant they may perform differently in the garden. As a result, new and experienced Gardners can struggle with natives if they do not do their research. Terminology like Natives and Nativars can confuse gardeners. A Native: true native, straight species native, or wild type native, are all names for plants that are not commercially bred. A Nativar, on the other hand, is a species that is native but is bred to have certain characteristics or distinct features. A plant breeder may desire distinct color flowers or a more compact shape, these differences can be favorable and can result in the plant getting its own variety name. Some gardeners prefer to use straight species while others like to use a mixture of nativars and wildtype plants.

Design Tips for a Native Garden

Creating a visually appealing native garden involves thoughtful design. Here are some tips to help you get started: 

  • Mix and Match: Combine different species that bloom at various times of the year to ensure continuous color and interest in your garden. 
  • Layering: Use a mix of ground covers, perennials, shrubs, and trees to create a multi-layered garden that mimics natural habitats. 
  • Leave Some Leaf Litter: Designate a small area to leave leaf litter, which provides habitat for beneficial insects and improves soil health. 
  • Use Native Grasses: Incorporate native grasses like sedges and switchgrass to add texture and movement to your garden. 
  • Wildlife-Friendly Features: Include features such as bird baths, feeders, and nesting boxes to attract and support wildlife. 
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Join the Movement

The movement towards using native plants is gaining momentum, and for good reason. As more people become aware of the environmental challenges we face, the desire to make a positive impact grows. By choosing native plants, you are taking a step towards sustainability and contributing to the health of the local ecosystem.

At Chalet, we are passionate about promoting the use of native plants. We believe in the power of education and community involvement. Our team is here to support you with expert advice, resources, and a wide selection of native plants to help you create a beautiful and sustainable garden.

Your Role in the Ecosystem

Remember, every garden matters. Every plant you choose to grow makes a difference. By selecting native plants, you are not just creating a garden; you are building a habitat, conserving resources, and contributing to the preservation of biodiversity.

Get Started Today

We invite you to join us in this journey. Visit our nursery, speak with our experts, and explore the beauty and benefits of native plants. Together, we can create landscapes that are not only stunning but also sustainable and supportive of our local environment.

Let’s make the North Shore of Chicago a haven for nature’s best. Your garden can be a part of this inspiring movement. Embrace native plants and watch your garden come to life in ways you never imagined.

by the Chalet Sustainability Committee

Chalet's Sustainability Committee, among other goals, helps the local community learn about sustainable gardening and lifestyle practices. Thank you for reading our blog and consider sharing it with friends to get the word out about how we can make our local green spaces healthier and our community more sustainable.

Lawson Thalmann

Principal Author