There are many reasons to plant Native plants, some selfish and some altruistic. The selfish ones include the simplicity of care. Once a native plant is established it doesn't need us to water or fertilize it or care for it in any way if we choose not to. So it will save us time and effort and money. If you plant those plants which are used by birds, butterflies and other wildlife you will have the pleasure of watching these creatures in your own backyard. Native plants have developed a resistance to the insects and diseases common to the area and so will maintain health without our intervention.

The altruistic reasons include the fact that we will be replacing lost food and habitat for native wildlife of all kinds by planting those plants they depend on in the wild. We will be working to replace those "corridors" that they use when moving around our area. You will be helping to bring a bit of ecological balance back to the small piece of the planet you care for.