Native plants are those plants that grew in New England before the arrival of European settlers. Many of the plants you have in your landscape are probably native and you don’t even know it. Native plants, as a group, are part of what makes New England unique. In addition, native plant communities provide a vital habitat for New England’s wildlife.

Native plants have several advantages over introduced plants, including winter hardiness, pest resistance, and low maintenance needs. Native plants are also non-invasive. They pose no threat to native plant communities if they escape cultivation. Introduced plants such as purple loosestrife can takeover wetlands and other native habitats.

When you are designing your beds look at the existing plants in your yard. Adding natives’ species into the landscape will enhance your gardens. Many of the native plants have specific habitat requirements. For example, some native plants live near the coast, others only in the forest.

One of the easiest ways you can design native plants into your landscape is by using the American Beauties brand. This group of plants will take the guesswork out of native plants by creating (4) possible gardens: Bird, Butterfly, Dry Shade, and Moist Sun.

Better yet, each American Beauties plant sold will benefit the National Wildlife Federation. With each purchase a donation will be made to help fund the home habitat work and outreach programs and their work to create a better home landscape environment for you and the colorful garden critters you love with natives.