Native trees have developed on their own through thousands of years of self-selection, resulting in species that vary genetically in their adaptation to particular locations and environmental conditions. Using these hardy plants insures the greatest potential for success in your planting efforts. The use of exotic plants that have been removed from their native habitats can cause significant environmental disruption. Plants have developed in balance with other natural processes and life cycles within their living community. Many of those processes are disrupted when non-natives are introduced.

• Use of native plants is a benefit to the varieties of wildlife that have evolved along with them by providing the food and cover they are accustomed to.
• Native plants generally will require fewer pesticides and less fertilizer and water to maintain a healthy growing condition. An added benefit is improved water quality.
• Native plants are more resistant to diseases and insect attack.
• In many cases native plants will require less maintenance, saving time and money.
• By planting native species you will be helping to preserve America’s outstanding natural heritage.  Americans chose the mighty oak as our national tree, not the mighty Bradford pear.
• Planting the many species of native plants available to us insures the landscape will be healthy and diverse and not a monoculture of short-lived and stressed plants.
• Many of our native trees grow larger and are longer-lived than their non-native counterparts. These native plants are more effective in removing carbon dioxide from the air and storing the carbon in the roots, wood, bark, and soil, making them natural air purifiers.