Spring has sprung in Northeast Ohio! As temperatures climb, flowers bloom from the ground, and green starts to return to our landscapes, many homeowners like to work on their yards. As you begin to decide what you want your yard to look like this year, consider the following benefits that native plants can bring to your property.
Native plants provide environmental, aesthetic, and cost advantages to your yard when compared to non-native varieties. Native plants are adapted to the unique soil and climate conditions of our area. The Blue Flag Iris, for example, tolerates soils with high salinity and areas that are constantly wet. Its beautiful blue spring bloom can brighten up anyone’s day!
Native plants cost less to care for than non-native plant species and turf grass. Native plants do not require large quantities of fertilizer and watering since they have adapted to the soils of Northeast Ohio. Turf grass requires large quantities of fertilizer and water to meet aesthetic standards.
Native plants, like the Blue Flag Iris, can grow vast root networks underground. These deep root systems help provide a variety of benefits including improved drainage, less compacted soils, and better soil quality for plant communities. Their deep roots also allow greater water infiltration into the soil during heavy rain events. This allows native plants to absorb more stormwater during heavy rain and minimize the stormwater flowing off your property. You can help your community weather storms by planting native plants!
Native plants are also more likely to survive climatic extremes. As our climate changes in Northeast Ohio, increased severity and frequency of heat waves and precipitation can cause damage to our local environment. Native plants help mitigate climate impacts due to their adaptations to local soils, deep roots, and connection to the surrounding plant and wildlife community.
If you are looking for ideas on how to include native plants on your property, CRWP’s website has several resources for homeowners to help you get started here. You can also consider signing up for the Lake Erie Stormwater Stewards Rebate Program! The Central Lake Erie Basin Collaborative is providing rebates to Northeast Ohio homeowners who install rain gardens and/or rain barrels on their properties. Installing a rain garden filled with native plants can help reduce stormwater runoff, create habitats, and manage flooding on your property and in your community.
Rebates are awarded on a first come, first served basis after confirmation of completed installation and a final rebate application is received. Funding is limited. Please be sure to follow all code and ordinance requirements for your community. Visit their website for all program details at https://crwp.org/lake-erie-stormwater-rebate