The Misguided Landscape Approach: A Lesson from California & Arizona
In recent times, the landscaping and gardening practices in California & Arizona have offered a critical lesson in environmental stewardship. The prevailing focus there has been singular – minimizing water use. However, this approach, despite its good intentions, has inadvertently neglected a crucial aspect: the role of native plants in preserving biodiversity. This oversight has significant implications, not just for California but for regions across the globe, including East Tennessee.
Biodiversity and Native Plants: An Undeniable Responsibility
Much like the California and Arizona, East Tennessee is part of a rich and diverse ecosystem. The Appalachian region, with its unique flora and fauna, calls for a responsible approach to landscaping – one that respects and nurtures this natural heritage. For over a century, the trend of favoring nonnative plants in urban spaces has persisted, often overlooking the symbiotic relationships these native species share with local wildlife, such as bees, butterflies, songbirds, and pollinators.
Urban Landscapes as Biodiversity Lifeboats
It’s time to reconceptualize our urban landscapes. Rather than seeing them as merely ornamental, we should view them as vital sanctuaries for preserving the region’s natural biodiversity. This is especially pertinent considering the challenges posed by climate change. In East Tennessee, as in the West, we must prioritize planting native species that support our ecosystems, rather than introducing exotic plants that contribute little to our environmental health.
The Science Behind Native Plant Landscaping
The argument for native plant landscaping is grounded in ecological science. Most plant-eating insects and local pollinators rely heavily, if not exclusively, on native plants for their lifecycle. By contrast, exotic plants can disrupt local ecosystems, often promoting invasive species that displace native wildlife. In East Tennessee, embracing native plants in our green spaces is not just a choice – it’s a necessity for maintaining ecological balance.
Biodiversity Misunderstood in Commercial Landscaping
A common misconception in the landscaping industry is equating biodiversity with the sheer number of different plant species. However, incorporating nonnative species often undermines biodiversity, as these plants don’t support the local soil, microbes, insects, birds, and mammals that have co-evolved with native plants over millennia. In East Tennessee, with its rich array of native species, there’s an opportunity to cultivate landscapes that are both diverse and ecologically harmonious.
The Way Forward: Choosing Native Plants
The commercial landscaping industry and public sector often lag in adopting practices that prioritize native plants. Yet, as responsible citizens and stewards of our environment, we in East Tennessee can make informed choices. By selecting native plants for our gardens and public spaces, we align ourselves with millions of years of evolutionary wisdom, supporting the intricate web of life that thrives in our region.
A Call to Action for East Tennessee
The example of California & Arizona’s flawed approach to landscaping is a cautionary tale for us in East Tennessee. As we plan our gardens and urban landscapes, let’s choose to support our native ecosystem. It’s time for homeowners, city planners, landscapers, and community leaders to embrace the beauty and ecological importance of native plants. In doing so, we not only enhance the natural charm of our region but also contribute to a sustainable and vibrant ecosystem for future generations.
You can get started today by visiting one of our favorites places to buy native plants, https://www.tennesseenaturescapes.com/
They may be closed until March 2024 but you can start planning your beautiful garden now by using their plant list,
https://www.tennesseenaturescapes.com/newsletter-articles/availability-list
If you are comfortable with bare root plantings or starting from seed, here are some other sites to visit:
https://www.arborday.org/
https://www.tnnursery.net/
https://www.prairiemoon.com/
https://roundstoneseed.com/
https://www.izelplants.com/
Please let us know if you have favorites of your own.