Tori Rose

Wildlife & Habitat Conservation

  • How to Create a Backyard Sanctuary with Native Plants

    How to Create a Backyard Sanctuary with Native Plants

    Discover the Benefits of Planting Native Species and How They Can Support Local Wildlife in Your Backyard

    Creating a sanctuary in your backyard for local wildlife might be simpler than you think. By choosing native plants, you can offer a vibrant space that supports local ecosystems, promotes biodiversity, and helps restore habitats for birds, bees, butterflies, and other wildlife. Whether you have a small patch of land or a large yard, transforming your space into a wildlife-friendly haven is both a fulfilling and essential way to contribute to conservation efforts.

    Let’s explore how native plants can benefit your backyard sanctuary and how to start designing your own wildlife-friendly garden.

    What are Native Plants and Why Are They Essential for Wildlife?

    Native plants are species that have naturally occurred and evolved in a specific region over a long period. They have adapted to the local climate, soil, and ecosystem, making them ideally suited for supporting the wildlife in that area. These plants play a critical role in maintaining the health of local ecosystems by providing food, shelter, and nesting spots for various species, including pollinators, birds, and mammals.

    When you plant native species in your yard, you help provide the resources that local wildlife depend on, especially in times when their natural habitats are shrinking due to urbanization and development. Native plants are the foundation of biodiversity because they are the food source and shelter for insects, which are the base of the food chain. Birds, bats, and other wildlife rely on these insects for nourishment, making native plants essential for sustaining healthy ecosystems.

    Step-by-Step Guide to Creating Your Backyard Wildlife Sanctuary with Native Plants

    1. Assess Your Space

    Before planting, take a moment to assess your yard. What is the soil like? Is it sandy, clay-heavy, or loamy? Do you have areas with full sun, partial shade, or deep shade? Understanding your yard’s unique conditions is crucial to choosing the best native plants that will thrive in your space.

    Consider the microclimates within your yard too. For example, areas that are consistently wet may be suitable for water-loving plants, while drier parts of the yard may need drought-tolerant species. The more specific you can be about your yard’s needs, the better the plants will flourish.

    2. Choose the Right Native Plants for Your Area

    Each region has its own unique set of native plants that are suited to local wildlife. Research the species native to your region, and choose those that are not only beautiful but also beneficial to local wildlife. Select a range of plants that cater to different wildlife needs, such as nectar-rich flowers for pollinators, berry-producing shrubs for birds, and tall grasses for insects.

    Be sure to choose plants that are well adapted to your local climate, whether it’s hot and dry, cool and wet, or somewhere in between. Local botanical gardens, nurseries, and online resources can help guide you in selecting the right native species for your area.

    3. Plant for All Seasons

    When designing your backyard sanctuary, it’s important to think beyond just a beautiful garden. Native plants that bloom in different seasons provide wildlife with a steady food supply year-round. For example, early spring flowers like bloodroot (Sanguinaria canadensis) or spring beauty (Claytonia virginica) provide much-needed nectar for bees, while late-summer blooms like coneflowers feed butterflies and hummingbirds.

    By incorporating plants that offer both seasonal color and consistent nourishment, you’ll ensure your garden is an ongoing resource for wildlife. Consider layering plants that bloom at different times, so there’s always something in flower for pollinators.

    4. Consider Layering Your Plants

    In nature, plant communities grow in layers, and this can be mirrored in your garden for maximum wildlife benefit. Start with a mix of low-growing ground covers, such as native wildflowers or grasses, followed by mid-height shrubs that attract birds and insects, and finally, larger trees or tall shrubs that provide shelter and nesting spots for birds.

    By mimicking the natural layers of a forest or meadow, you create a diverse and dynamic environment that offers a variety of habitats. These layered spaces provide different microhabitats for different species, from insects in the ground layer to birds in the taller trees.

    How Adding Water Sources Enhances Your Backyard Wildlife Sanctuary

    Water is just as important as plants in creating a wildlife-friendly environment. Adding a small water feature, like a birdbath or pond, attracts not only birds but also insects, amphibians, and even small mammals. Water provides a critical resource for wildlife, especially during hot summer months when natural water sources may be scarce.

    If you have the space, consider creating a small pond or a shallow dish of water. Water features don’t have to be large or complex—small additions, like a shallow birdbath, can make a significant impact.

    Maintaining Your Native Garden for Long-Term Wildlife Support

    Once your native garden is established, it’s important to maintain it in ways that continue to support wildlife. First and foremost, avoid using pesticides and chemical fertilizers, as they can harm pollinators and other beneficial insects. Instead, embrace organic gardening practices, such as composting and using natural fertilizers.

    In addition, allow parts of your garden to remain “untidy.” Piles of leaves or twigs, dead flower stems, and patches of unmowed grass provide natural shelter for insects and small creatures. Over time, your garden will evolve, and the natural processes will help it thrive without much intervention.

    Why It’s Worth the Effort: The Impact of Your Sanctuary on Local Wildlife

    By creating a backyard sanctuary, you’re playing an important role in the conservation of local ecosystems. Even a small yard can contribute to the overall health of the environment by providing vital resources for pollinators, birds, and other wildlife. The benefits of planting native species extend beyond your backyard and contribute to the larger goal of ecological restoration and biodiversity preservation.

    While it may feel like a small gesture, your efforts add up—one yard at a time, we can create a network of safe spaces for wildlife. Through these small, yet meaningful actions, we have the power to restore harmony between nature and the communities we live in.

    The Beauty of Creating a Sanctuary for Wildlife in Your Own Backyard

    As I stand in my garden, watching bees and butterflies flutter among the wildflowers, I am reminded of how even small spaces can make a big difference. Creating a backyard sanctuary isn’t just about planting a few flowers; it’s about forming a connection with the world around us. When we choose native plants, we’re choosing to support the intricate web of life that depends on them. We’re helping to bring back species that are struggling, we’re providing food for pollinators, and we’re creating a space where wildlife can thrive. This work may seem small at times, but in the grand scheme, every little effort matters. Together, we can create a healthier, more vibrant world for all living creatures. And it starts with something as simple as the plants in our own yards.

  • Designing Your Landscape for Maximum Wildlife Impact

    Designing Your Landscape for Maximum Wildlife Impact

    How to create a layered, bio-diverse garden.

    Creating a landscape that is as beautiful as it is beneficial to the environment is not just a dream—it’s entirely possible, and it begins with designing your garden in a way that supports and nurtures the creatures that call it home. A bio-diverse garden, full of native plants and thoughtful layers, is a space where wildlife can thrive, whether it’s the birds chirping in the trees, the bees buzzing among the flowers, or the butterflies fluttering from bloom to bloom.

    In this article, I’ll walk you through how to design your garden with layers, a strategy that mimics nature’s own balance and encourages a thriving, diverse ecosystem. Together, we’ll explore how to plant for pollinators, birds, and small mammals while creating a peaceful, aesthetic space that speaks to your love for nature and art.

    Understanding the Basics of a Bio-Diverse Garden

    A bio-diverse garden isn’t just a collection of pretty plants—it’s a thoughtfully planned ecosystem where each element plays a role. When we talk about bio-diversity, we’re referring to the variety of life in an environment. The goal is to support different species of plants, insects, birds, and mammals, all living in harmony and helping each other. Native plants are the backbone of this system because they’ve evolved alongside the wildlife in your area, providing the right resources at the right times.

    But how do you build a garden like this? The key is in layering. Nature’s own ecosystems—forests, prairies, wetlands—are all structured in layers. In a garden, this translates to creating multiple levels of plants that work together to provide shelter, food, and protection for various creatures.

    Designing with Layers – Building a Multi-Tiered Garden

    Layer 1: Trees (Canopy)

    Start with the largest layer—the canopy. Tall trees provide the highest level of shelter, offering shade and nesting space for birds, insects, and mammals. They also play an important role in stabilizing the ecosystem by producing oxygen and cleaning the air.

    For native trees, think about species like oaks, maples, and birches. Oaks, for example, are fantastic for attracting wildlife—they provide acorns for squirrels and birds, and their branches host a variety of insect species.

    Layer 2: Shrubs and Bushes (Understory)

    Next, we move to the understory. This layer is made up of medium-height plants—shrubs and bushes—that fill in the space between the trees and the ground. Shrubs provide food, shelter, and nesting sites for smaller birds, insects, and even small mammals. They can also offer critical windbreaks and act as natural boundaries in your garden.

    Native options include serviceberries, viburnums, and spicebush. These plants are well-loved by wildlife for their flowers, berries, and dense foliage. A well-placed shrub can offer birds a safe haven from predators, especially if it’s located near a birdbath or birdhouse.

    Layer 3: Herbaceous Plants (Ground Layer)

    Herbaceous plants—wildflowers, grasses, and ferns—create the ground layer of your garden. These plants are crucial for pollinators like bees, butterflies, and moths. Many of these species bloom at different times throughout the year, creating a year-round buffet for insects and providing color and texture to your garden.

    Consider adding native species like bee balm, black-eyed susans, or wild ginger. These plants don’t just add beauty—they provide food for pollinators and help maintain soil health. The vibrant blooms also offer a wonderful contrast to the more subdued foliage of your trees and shrubs.

    Layer 4: Ground Covers and Mulch

    The final layer in your bio-diverse garden is the ground cover. This includes low-growing plants, moss, and mulch that help protect the soil, retain moisture, and prevent erosion. Ground covers also provide hiding spaces for insects and small mammals.

    Ground covers like creeping thyme, wild strawberries, or mosses are excellent choices. Not only are they beautiful, but they can act as a living mulch, breaking down to improve soil quality.

    Planting with Purpose – Creating Habitat for Wildlife

    It’s not just about adding layers—it’s about selecting the right plants for the right wildlife. Native plants support specific wildlife needs, such as nectar, berries, seeds, and shelter. Think about planting a mix of plants that provide food sources throughout the year. For example, late-blooming asters and goldenrods will offer food for pollinators well into the fall, while early-blooming crocuses and violets will help pollinators wake up after the winter.

    If you’re interested in creating a bird-friendly garden, incorporate plants like sunflowers and elderberries that offer both food and shelter. For butterflies, focus on host plants like milkweed and lead plant that their larvae can feed on.

    Water features, like birdbaths or ponds, are also a wonderful addition to any garden. Not only do they provide drinking water, but they offer a safe place for amphibians to breed and small birds to bathe. You can even add a small fountain or water basin that doubles as a drinking station and bird bath.

    Creating Year-Round Habitat

    A layered garden is a year-round habitat, and it’s important to think about how your design can support wildlife throughout the changing seasons. Native plants that produce seeds or berries can provide food for birds in the winter, while standing grasses and seed heads can be a food source for small mammals. Leave seed heads and stems in place during the colder months so that insects can take shelter.

    Keeping a few areas of your garden a little “wild” during the winter months can be just as valuable as the vibrant flowers of spring. This approach gives insects a chance to overwinter and birds a place to forage for food.

    Practical Tips for Designing a Wildlife-Friendly Landscape on a Budget

    Starting a bio-diverse garden doesn’t have to be expensive. There are plenty of affordable ways to make your landscape a haven for wildlife. Start small by planting one section of your garden or adding a few key species to a smaller area. You can often find native plants through local plant sales, community groups, or native plant societies.

    If cost is a concern, consider growing some plants from seed. Many wildflowers and grasses are easy to start at home, and you can always trade seeds with other gardeners. Mulching with organic material like leaves or grass clippings will also help keep costs down while benefiting your soil.

    Finally, remember that designing a wildlife-friendly garden is an ongoing process. Start small, observe how your plants and wildlife interact, and adjust your design over time to create the best environment possible.

    Nurturing Wildlife through Biodiverse Gardens

    Designing a garden that supports wildlife is one of the most rewarding things you can do, both for the environment and for your own well-being. By planting native, layered gardens, you’re creating a space where wildlife can thrive while also fostering a deeper connection with nature. Even small efforts—adding a few shrubs, planting some wildflowers, or building a birdbath—can make a big difference.

    I encourage you to get started on your own journey toward creating a bio-diverse garden. Every step counts, and together, we can create a future where wildlife and humans coexist in harmony. Remember, the beauty of nature is in its diversity—let’s do our part to celebrate and nurture that diversity in our own backyards.

  • How to Attract Birds to Your Garden with Native Plants

    How to Attract Birds to Your Garden with Native Plants

    Plant Species That Feed and Shelter Bird Populations

    Birds are a vital part of our ecosystems, contributing to pest control, pollination, and seed dispersal. By choosing native plants for your garden, you can create an inviting sanctuary for these beautiful creatures. Native plants provide birds with the food, shelter, and nesting sites they need to thrive. In this article, we’ll explore how planting native species can help you attract birds to your garden and support their populations.

    Why Native Plants are Essential for Birds

    Native plants are perfectly suited to local climates, soil types, and wildlife. They have evolved alongside the birds and other local creatures, making them the most reliable and beneficial option for supporting biodiversity. Unlike non-native plants, which can often fail to provide the right nutrients or habitat for birds, native plants are an essential part of a bird-friendly ecosystem.

    • Food Sources for Birds:
      Many birds rely on specific native plants for food, whether it’s seeds, berries, nectar, or insects. By choosing plants that produce these foods, you can create a garden that attracts a variety of bird species. For example, berry-producing plants like serviceberry and elderberry provide food for fruit-eating birds, while native grasses offer seeds for seed-eating birds.
    • Shelter and Nesting Sites:
      Birds need places to rest, hide from predators, and raise their young. Native plants such as trees, shrubs, and grasses offer the perfect habitat. Dense shrubs provide shelter, while tall trees offer perches and nesting opportunities for birds. Some plants, like hollies and cedars, have dense, evergreen foliage that can provide year-round cover.
    • Supporting Migratory Birds:
      Migratory birds depend on native plants as a stopover point during their long journeys. Planting native flowers, shrubs, and trees along migratory routes can provide these birds with food, shelter, and rest on their travels. Native plants help ensure that these birds have the resources they need to complete their migrations successfully.

    Best Native Plants for Attracting Birds

    Here are some excellent native plant species that can provide food and shelter for a variety of bird species:

    • Serviceberry (Amelanchier spp.):
      Serviceberry is a small tree or shrub that produces sweet, blueberry-like fruits that are highly attractive to birds, including robins, cedar waxwings, and bluebirds. It also provides shelter with its dense branches, making it a perfect addition to any bird-friendly garden.
    • Elderberry (Sambucus canadensis):
      Elderberries are packed with nutrients and are loved by many bird species, such as grouse, pheasants, and woodpeckers. The large clusters of berries appear in late summer and fall, providing food for birds during the colder months when other food sources may be scarce.
    • Sunflower (Helianthus spp.):
      Sunflowers are well-known for their large, seed-filled heads, which attract a variety of seed-eating birds, including finches, chickadees, and sparrows. These vibrant flowers are also excellent for attracting pollinators, making them a great addition to a bird-friendly garden.
    • Goldenrod (Solidago spp.):
      Goldenrod is an important plant for attracting both pollinators and birds. Its seeds are a food source for many bird species, including goldfinches, who are especially fond of the seeds. Additionally, goldenrod attracts insects that are a food source for insectivorous birds.
    • Virginia Creeper (Parthenocissus quinquefolia):
      This climbing vine produces small berries in late summer that attract birds, especially during migration. The vine’s dense foliage also provides shelter and nesting sites for a variety of bird species, from sparrows to warblers.
    • Black-eyed Susan (Rudbeckia hirta):
      The seeds of black-eyed Susan flowers are a favorite for seed-eating birds like finches and sparrows. Their bright yellow petals also attract pollinators, which in turn provide food for insectivorous birds.
    • Winterberry Holly (Ilex verticillata):
      This deciduous shrub produces bright red berries that attract many bird species, including robins, thrushes, and cedar waxwings. Its dense, bushy form offers excellent shelter for birds, making it a great year-round addition to your garden.
    • New Jersey Tea (Ceanothus americanus):
      New Jersey tea produces small, fragrant white flowers that attract pollinators like bees and butterflies, which provide food for insect-eating birds. The plant also produces small seeds that are enjoyed by sparrows and other seed-eating birds.
    • Spicebush (Lindera benzoin):
      Spicebush is a deciduous shrub that produces small, bright red berries in the fall. These berries are a favorite food for many bird species, including cardinals and thrushes. The dense foliage provides excellent cover and nesting sites for birds.

    Creating a Bird-Friendly Garden

    To create a garden that attracts birds, it’s important to provide a variety of native plants that serve different needs. Here are some tips to make your garden more appealing to birds:

    • Layered Planting:
      Incorporate a mix of trees, shrubs, and groundcovers to create layers of habitat. Birds will use different levels of the garden for food, shelter, and nesting.
    • Year-Round Food Sources:
      Select plants that provide food throughout the year. For example, early spring bloomers like serviceberry can feed birds in the spring, while plants like winterberry holly offer berries in the winter.
    • Water Sources:
      Birds need water for drinking and bathing. Consider adding a birdbath or small pond to your garden to provide a year-round water source.
    • Avoid Pesticides:
      Pesticides can harm birds and reduce their food sources. Instead, use organic gardening practices to protect both your plants and the birds that visit your garden.
    • Provide Shelter:
      Dense shrubs, trees with low branches, and tall grasses can offer shelter from predators and harsh weather. Consider planting evergreens for year-round cover.

    Create a Haven for Birds—Plant Native!

    By planting native species in your garden, you can create a thriving habitat that attracts a wide variety of birds. Native plants provide the food, shelter, and nesting sites that birds need to survive and flourish. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or just starting out, incorporating these plants into your landscape can make a real difference in supporting bird populations and enhancing biodiversity.

    Ready to attract more birds to your garden? Start planting native species today and create a sanctuary for our feathered friends. From providing food to offering shelter, your garden can become an essential part of a bird-friendly ecosystem.

    FAQ: How to Attract Birds to Your Garden with Native Plants

    Why are native plants important for attracting birds?

    Native plants are well-suited to local climates and wildlife. They provide the necessary food, shelter, and nesting sites for birds, supporting biodiversity and creating a healthier environment for bird populations.

    What types of food sources can I provide for birds in my garden?

    Planting berry-producing plants like serviceberry and elderberry, seed-filled sunflowers, and insect-attracting goldenrod provides a variety of food for different bird species, from fruit-eaters to seed-eaters and insectivores.

    How can I create shelter for birds in my garden?

    Incorporate dense shrubs, trees, and tall grasses to provide shelter from predators and harsh weather. Evergreen plants like hollies and cedars offer year-round cover, while shrubs and vines serve as nesting sites.

    What are the best native plants to attract birds?

    Some great options include serviceberry, elderberry, sunflower, goldenrod, and winterberry holly. These plants offer both food (berries, seeds, and nectar) and shelter for a variety of bird species.

    How can I ensure my garden supports birds year-round?

    To support birds throughout the year, plant a mix of native species that provide food and shelter across all seasons. Include early bloomers like serviceberry for spring, and late-season plants like winterberry holly for winter food sources.

  • The Role of Native Plants in Supporting Local Wildlife

    The Role of Native Plants in Supporting Local Wildlife

    How Plants Are the Foundation of the Food Web

    Native plants play a critical role in maintaining the balance of local ecosystems by supporting the food web. They provide essential habitats, nourishment, and shelter for a wide variety of wildlife species. From insects to birds and mammals, these plants form the foundation of the complex relationships that sustain biodiversity in our natural environments.

    In this article, we’ll explore how native plants support local wildlife, their importance in the food web, and why integrating these plants into your landscape is essential for promoting biodiversity.

    The Role of Native Plants in the Food Web

    The food web is a complex system of interconnected organisms where each species depends on others for food, shelter, and survival. At the base of this web are plants, which produce the energy that sustains all other life forms. Native plants are particularly important in this system because they have co-evolved with local wildlife over thousands of years, providing a reliable source of food and habitat.

    • Supporting Herbivores:
      Native plants serve as the primary food source for many herbivorous species. Insects such as caterpillars, bees, and butterflies rely on specific native plants for nectar, pollen, and leaves to nourish themselves and reproduce. These insects, in turn, provide food for insectivores, including birds, amphibians, and small mammals.
    • Providing Habitat for Pollinators:
      Pollinators, including bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds, are vital to the reproduction of many plants, including many crops. Native plants have evolved alongside local pollinators, creating a perfect match for pollination. By planting native species, you support these crucial creatures and help maintain biodiversity in your area.
    • Attracting Predators:
      The insects and small animals that feed on native plants become prey for larger predators, such as birds of prey, reptiles, and mammals. For example, native shrubs and trees provide food and shelter for insect populations, which in turn attract insect-eating birds and animals. This relationship between plants, herbivores, and predators helps to maintain a balanced and healthy ecosystem.
    • Creating Safe Habitats:
      Native plants also provide shelter and nesting sites for wildlife. Trees, shrubs, and grasses offer cover from predators and harsh weather conditions. By providing these safe spaces, native plants ensure that wildlife can thrive and reproduce in a secure environment.

    The Importance of Native Plants in Ecosystem Health

    Native plants have adapted to the local environment over time, making them uniquely suited to support local wildlife. They are more resistant to pests, diseases, and extreme weather conditions compared to non-native plants. Additionally, native plants require fewer resources, such as water and fertilizers, making them a sustainable choice for landscaping.

    When non-native plants are introduced into an ecosystem, they can disrupt the food web by outcompeting native plants and reducing the availability of food and shelter for wildlife. This can lead to a decrease in biodiversity, as species that depend on native plants may struggle to survive.

    Examples of Native Plants that Support Local Wildlife:

    • Milkweed (Asclepias spp.):
      Milkweed is essential for monarch butterflies, which rely on its leaves to lay their eggs and as a food source for their larvae. The flowers also attract bees and other pollinators.
    • Goldenrod (Solidago spp.):
      Goldenrod provides nectar for pollinators, especially late-season bees and butterflies. It also supports a variety of caterpillars and insect-eating birds.
    • Coneflower (Echinacea purpurea):
      Coneflower is a favorite of bees, butterflies, and other pollinators. Its seeds provide food for birds, particularly finches, during the winter months.
    • Oaks (Quercus spp.):
      Oaks are keystone species in many ecosystems, supporting hundreds of species of insects, birds, and mammals. The acorns are a vital food source for mammals, while the tree’s canopy provides shelter for a variety of animals.
    • Black-eyed Susan (Rudbeckia hirta):
      This vibrant flower attracts bees, butterflies, and other pollinators. Its seeds are also a food source for birds, particularly finches.

    How You Can Support Local Wildlife with Native Plants:

    • Choose Native Plants for Your Garden:
      When selecting plants for your landscape, choose native species that are well-suited to your local environment. These plants will require less maintenance, and they will provide food and shelter for local wildlife.
    • Create a Pollinator-Friendly Garden:
      Include a variety of flowering native plants that bloom throughout the year to provide a continuous source of nectar and pollen for pollinators.
    • Plant Trees and Shrubs:
      Trees and shrubs offer nesting sites, shelter, and food for a variety of wildlife. Choose native species that are known to support local birds and mammals.
    • Avoid Pesticides and Herbicides:
      Chemicals can harm beneficial insects, pollinators, and other wildlife. Use natural alternatives to manage pests and weeds in your garden.
    • Create Habitat Areas:
      Leave some areas of your garden untended to provide shelter and nesting spaces for wildlife. Mulch, fallen leaves, and brush piles can offer a safe haven for small animals.

    Supporting Biodiversity with Native Plants

    Native plants are the cornerstone of a healthy food web, providing essential food, shelter, and habitat for a variety of wildlife species. By choosing native plants for your garden or landscape, you can support local biodiversity and help sustain healthy ecosystems. Every plant you add to your landscape is a contribution to the greater web of life, from the insects to the birds, mammals, and predators that depend on them.

    Ready to make a difference? Start supporting local wildlife by incorporating native plants into your landscape today. Whether you’re planting a small garden or creating a wildlife habitat, your efforts will help promote biodiversity and ensure the health of local ecosystems for generations to come.

    FAQ: The Role of Native Plants in Supporting Local Wildlife

    Why are native plants important for wildlife?

    Native plants provide essential food, shelter, and habitats for local wildlife species. They have evolved alongside local ecosystems, making them crucial for supporting herbivores, pollinators, predators, and other wildlife in a balanced food web.

    How do native plants support pollinators?

    Native plants offer the right nectar and pollen that local pollinators, like bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds, need for reproduction. By planting native species, you help maintain healthy pollinator populations, which are vital for both wild ecosystems and agricultural production

    What are some examples of native plants that support wildlife?

    Examples include milkweed (for monarch butterflies), goldenrod (for late-season pollinators), oaks (which support numerous insects, birds, and mammals), and black-eyed Susan (which attracts pollinators and provides food for birds).

    How do non-native plants affect local wildlife?

    Non-native plants can disrupt ecosystems by outcompeting native plants, reducing the availability of food and shelter for wildlife, and potentially lowering biodiversity. Native plants are more suited to local conditions, benefiting wildlife by maintaining a reliable and balanced food web.

    How can I support local wildlife with native plants in my garden?

    You can support wildlife by choosing native plants for your garden, creating a pollinator-friendly space, planting trees and shrubs for shelter, avoiding pesticides, and allowing areas of your garden to remain untended to provide habitats for small animals.