Using the resources at hand they evolved over thousands of years. They worked with the site’s soils, sunlight, moisture, and wildlife. Together, they created functional ecosystems we call natural communities. 

Something wonderful happens when we use the inspiration of natural plant communities. For example, a site with consistently moist soil can use wetland plants. Glade plants are at home in droughty sites with shallow soils. The prairie’s expanses of grasses and perennials can inspire a no-mow meadow on an open site. Or, add trees and shrubs to mimic a forest or savanna. 

Native plants of a natural community are resilient. They become landscape workhorses in settings with similar light and moisture needs. They embrace a site’s challenges as desired features. We know where man sees challenges, nature sees opportunities.