When thinking of a healthy environment, most people think of plants and wildlife. But the foundation for an ecosystem’s health begins below the surface. It begins in a vibrant, living soil.
Extensive Root Networks
Native plants contribute to soil health through their unique root systems. Their extensive root networks help anchor soil particles in place. They help prevent soil erosion by stabilizing the topsoil. This in turn reduces the risk of nutrient runoff into nearby bodies of water.
Microbial Advantages
Beneath the surface lies an intricate web of microbial life that is crucial for soil health. They have a symbiotic relationship with soil microbes.
Healthy soil has a fascinating and complex system of microorganisms. These include mycorrhizae, protozoa, nematodes, and bacteria. These tiny creatures are invisible to the naked eye. But when balanced, they break down elements with powerful chemistry. Then, roots can absorb usable nutrients and benefit the plant.
Fertilizers also feed plants, but alone, fertilizers are far from enough. Plants need sustained nutrition not only with periodic fertilizer application. For this, you must get back to carbon, the foundation of life. Soil fungi break down solid carbon chains and prevent their escape. Bacteria then reorganize them to help make nutrients available as needed by plants.
Mycorrhizae are special fungal filaments that extend root systems. They do best with a variety of plant species and roots of varied depths. Their symbiotic relationship is critical to the plant’s effective nutrient and water absorption.
Together, these microorganisms help soil aggregates absorb water without breaking apart. They also help soil hold moisture during drought.
Combatting Climate Change
Climate change poses a significant threat. It also continues to push planting zones north. Besides temperature, rainfall, and soil types impact which plants thrive in an area. Climate change can push species outside of their evolved tolerances.
But native plants help mitigate the effects. Natives are more resistant to extreme weather events and temperature fluctuations. Their deep roots also contribute to better water absorption, aiding in drought tolerance.
Plant populations must acclimate, adapt, or migrate to avoid extinction. Also, ranges of invasive plant and insect species are expanding.
Soil health influences plant survival mechanisms. Plants associate with specific microbial communities. Their tolerance can expand with proper microbial introduction.For example, trees inoculated with microbial communities from drier sites have higher survival in drought. There are similar benefits for heat or cold stress.
Microbial mediation could help forests and other natural communities adapt to changing climates.
Carbon Sequestration
Native plants can also help with global warming. Native plants are superior in sequestering carbon dioxide during photosynthesis. Over time, the release of carbon and other organic matter enhances soil fertility. This helps farmers reduce need for synthetic fertilizers that can harm the environment.
Soil Structure
Native plants contribute to the organic matter content of the soil. Over time, leaves, twigs, and other plant material decompose. This improves soil structure, water infiltration, and root growth. Healthy soil structure also enhances aeration, which benefits microbial growth.
Forrest Keeling Builds the Foundation for Ecological Success
Forrest Keeling is a native plant nursery and a leader in supply and production. We have over 75 years of real-world experience and environmental observation to share.
Our all-natural RPM-production method delivers the industry’s most survivable, robust natives. Plants that flower and fruit two times faster. Each year, we grow over 1.5 million plants: seedlings, liners, and container stock. We offer 380 different native species. This includes 273 trees and shrubs species and 107 perennials.
If you’re planning to begin a native planting project, get in touch with Forrest Keeling. Or browse our online inventory with. real-time availability today.
Forrest Keeling… it’s where the best trees begin!