The case for using native plants in your yard is settled science!
Native plants require less maintenance.
Our native plants have evolved to our climate and have developed defenses against and symbiotic relationships with native birds and insects.
-Benefits to the homeowner include
* Increased probability the plant will survive and thrive
* Natives have adapted to local soil conditions and require less watering, fertilizing
* Natives support the ecosystem essential to every animal in the food chain
Convinced? Probably not...
The "settled science" argument is an ineffective approach to sway the skeptic in your life. Facts are not persuasive. Emotional appeals are the best vehicle for winning hearts and minds.
Let's examine recent history as an example.
"The plight of the honeybee"
The honeybee population crash has advanced the awareness of the pollinator's critical role in our food chain faster and more effectively than the "settled science" argument. The honeybee's population crisis is a catalyst driving demand for native plants. Before the honeybee colony collapse, bees were associated with wasps -scary and hostile threats. Over the last two years, the honeybee colony collapse has upgraded the bee's reputation to "butterfly" status.
Irony alert- Honeybees are not native to the US!
As the old adage says, "Take your victories as they come." The honeybee is a perfect mascot for the importance of pollinators! Public support of the honeybee benefits all pollinators. Most people do not differentiate a honeybee from a native bee.
As we protect and nurture the honeybee- all native species benefit.
For the optimists among us, here are some leading indicators that "going native" is gaining traction
Nurseries are dedicating sections for native plants
Plants (native and non-native) are marketed as "pollinator-friendly"
Municipalities are planting native trees in new developments
Pollinator-friendly shrubs, annuals, and perennials are increasing in storefront landscaping
Bee houses are now a "thing"!
Pest control services advertise their service as "bee-friendly"
Every supermarket features an "organic" section
Let's keep this list going - What did I miss?
A hoverfly feeds on globe thistle in my backyard
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