What are Native Plants?

The term native plant simply means a plant species that occurs naturally in a specific geographical area. Native plants have low maintenance and low water requirements, an important consideration in these times of water restrictions and shortages. They also attract and support wildlife and express the ecology of our region.

What are the Benefits of Native Plants?

Save energy and time! Native plants suit today's interest in "low-maintenance" gardening and landscaping. They are an excellent addition to your garden plantings because not only are they beautiful, but they also provide ecological benefits. When the planted in the appropriate site in your garden (ask your garden centre for advice), you will find that, once established, natives thrive without heavy watering and fertilizing. Natives are also are better adapted to pests and diseases common in the areas where they naturally grow. They also provide food and habitat for many species of wildlife - both large and very small.

The result is that the wonderful biodiversity of BC provides a beautiful, easily maintained Naturescape garden that uses less water and does not need pesticides. Find out what plants are generally available and how to care for them at the Native Plant Society of BC website. Other resources can be found at Evergreen's resource-rich site.