Conservation Corner: Why going native with your plants is a smart move
If you’ve visited your local plant nursery this year, you may have noticed that finding a Rocky Mountain maple seedling or a purple prairie clover mix has become easier than it used to be. In response to the growing awareness of the benefits that native vegetation can provide, nurseries have expanded their selections, simplifying the search for water-wise and pollinator-friendly plants.
So, why use native plants? Here are a few reasons why going native is in style and a smart move:
Native vegetation serves as a lifeline for local wildlife. For example, the Rocky Mountain columbine, Colorado’s state flower, provides nectar for native bees and hummingbirds, both of which are critical pollinators in our ecosystem. Meanwhile, shrubs like serviceberry and chokecherry produce berries that sustain birds and mammals through the winter. By planting native species, homeowners create a sanctuary for the animals that define our region.
Beyond their visual appeal, native plants work tirelessly underground to improve soil health. Unlike the shallow roots of many non-native species, the deep root systems of native plants help prevent soil erosion and improve water infiltration. This is particularly vital in Eagle County, where heavy monsoons and rapid snowmelt can lead to severe erosion.
Riparian zones, the interfaces between land and water, are particularly effective when planted with native grasses and shrubs. These areas are crucial for maintaining the health of our rivers and surrounding ecosystems. Species such as blue grama grass and mountain mahogany act as natural buffers, preserving water quality by filtering out pollutants and sediments from runoff before they can reach the rivers and streams. Their deep and extensive root systems stabilize the soil, preventing erosion and reducing the impact of flooding.
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In an era of increasing wildfire risk, native plants offer a natural defense. Many native species have evolved to be fire-resistant or to recover quickly after a fire. For example, the Ponderosa Pine has thick bark that protects it from low-intensity fires, while Fireweed rapidly colonizes burned areas, preventing erosion and promoting soil recovery. By integrating these resilient species into our gardens and public spaces, we can create fire-adapted communities that are better equipped to withstand and recover from wildfires.
Last but not least, native plants often require less water than non-native varieties. This means you can reduce your water use (and bills) by planting native species, creating more sustainable and hardy landscapes that thrive with minimal irrigation.
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Now that we’ve laid out the benefits of native vegetation, check out the selection at your local nursery next time you stop in, and also visit the Eagle County Conservation District’s website at EagleCountyCD.com, for regionally adapted native seed blends.
As a community, you have a unique opportunity to enhance your natural environment simply by choosing native plants. This small shift in our gardening practices can yield profound benefits for wildlife, soil health, river systems, and wildfire prevention. Planting native vegetation isn’t just “in style,” it’s cultivating a legacy of sustainability, one penstemon at a time.
Allegra Waterman-Snow is the Program Manager for the Eagle County Conservation District, which is committed to preserving and restoring natural resources by collaborating, educating, and cooperating for conservation. For more information, visit EagleCountyCD.com or contact allegra.eaglecountycd@gmail.com.