Large concrete landscapes, high-rise buildings, pollution, and limited green spaces are universal in urban spaces. Adding native plants can increase the quality of life for their inhabitants. Also, natives can help reduce the impact urban centers have on their regional ecology.
Here are three ways native plants can improve urban environments.
1. Stormwater Management
Native plants are workhorses for stormwater management. Native species are deeper rooted than turfgrass and most non-native plants. Those deep roots help absorb and filter rainwater. As they reduce stormwater runoff, soil erosion lessens. As a result, there is a reduced burden on municipal stormwater systems.
By filtering pollutants, water quality improves. The results are cleaner streams, rivers, and lakes. And clean water creates a healthier environment for wildlife and human populations.
2. Reduced Resource and Maintenance Requirements
Choosing natives can save money and resources. Acclimated to their region, native plants need less water, fertilizer, and pesticides. They also use less water compared to non-native alternatives.
Resilient native plants are an ideal choice for sustainable landscaping.
3. Species Variety and Biodiversity
Biodiversity is important in cities. Native plants help improve habitat for local wildlife. They also provide food for birds, bees, butterflies, and other pollinators.
Native plants also offer a variety of colors, shapes, and textures to enhance the beauty of cities.
Forrest Keeling Nursery’s Native Selections
Forrest Keeling is a renowned provider of native plants, offering hundreds of species ideal for urban planting. Our patented RPM process gives our plants distinct advantages. Our RPM-produced plants offer 2X faster flowering and fruiting, and better survivability.
Forrest Keeling’s dependable native plants offer beauty and functionality while improving the environment.
Forrest Keeling Can Help with Your Urban Planting Project
Looking to enhance sustainability while reducing costs by choosing native plants? Finding the right supplier is crucial. For over 75 years, Forrest Keeling has specialized in native species. Our native plants are the benchmark in conservation restoration.
Contact a Forrest Keeling representative today for more information. We’ll help you find the natives your customers need. Forrest Keeling… it’s where the best trees begin!