A healthy and diverse ecosystem is important for clean air and water, soil stability, and critical food and shelter for wildlife. Whether adding a few native plants to your landscape or substituting them in for exotic species, there are many benefits to going native. Native plants are often superior to exotic plants in terms of stormwater management because they usually have deeper and more extensive root systems that prevent erosion and provide extra filtration. Since natives also require little to no fertilizer or chemical applicants, both of which can harm stream ecosystems, they are also superior for improving water quality. Other benefits include:
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Planting Native Plants for Pollinators - OhioDNR
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Native Plants for Birds - Ohio State University Extension
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Gardening for the Greater Good: Stormwater, Native Plants and Pollinators - Cuyahoga SWCD
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Resources
For more information on native plants, check out these resources!
Plant for Pollinators - Cincinnati Zoo and Botanical Garden
Ohio Native Plants - Warren County Soil and Water Conservation District
Native Plants Lists - Ohio Department of Natural Resources
Native Plants - Ohio Native Plant Month
Great Cincinnati Master Rain Gardener Program
Planting Along Your Stream, Pond or Lake - University of Kentucky
Pollinators & Milkweed - Butler Soil and Water Conservation District
Plant for Pollinators - Cincinnati Zoo and Botanical Garden
Ohio Native Plants - Warren County Soil and Water Conservation District
Native Plants Lists - Ohio Department of Natural Resources
Native Plants - Ohio Native Plant Month
Great Cincinnati Master Rain Gardener Program
Planting Along Your Stream, Pond or Lake - University of Kentucky
Pollinators & Milkweed - Butler Soil and Water Conservation District