The Benefits of Native Trees You may have heard about the advantages of planting trees that are native to your region. There are many reasons for that. Think about how nature balances and supports itself without human intervention. That balance is created by sharing resources between plants and animals. The same concept applies to your yard. Sons explains, “Native plants enhance the composition of the soil, add nutrients, and improve all of them simultaneously. They are hardy, disease and pest-resistant, and you seldom have to worry about sprinklers on them. They are 90% drought tolerant.” Clarke agrees, saying, “Native trees are already adapted to local conditions, such as the climate, soil, and pests, and therefore require less water, fertilizer, and pesticides, making them more sustainable in your landscape. Native trees also support local wildlife, providing habitat and food for birds, insects, and mammals, helping maintain local biodiversity and ecological balance by supporting the species that evolved in the area.” While native trees require less maintenance and are more likely to thrive, Clarke warns, “Native species aren't always the best option, especially for homeowners that want trees with specific appearances, colors, or shapes that they can't get from native species or they want to create an exotic or themed garden that incorporates non-native species. In some cases, non-native species may be more resilient to changing climate conditions and better able to withstand heat waves, droughts, or pests that native species can't endure as well. Additionally, non-native species often grow faster and easier than native species, making them more suitable when trying to achieve shade and privacy quickly.”
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