The Garden Revolution: Embracing Native Plants
A Fresh Perspective on Gardening
In the world of gardening, a quiet revolution is taking place, and it's all about going native. The concept is simple: swap out those invasive, non-native plants for their indigenous counterparts. But why the sudden shift? Well, it's not just about being eco-friendly; it's a whole new way of thinking about our green spaces.
The Problem with Invasive Plants
You've probably heard the warnings about certain plants being invasive, but what does that really mean? These plants, often introduced for their aesthetic appeal, can quickly become ecological bullies, outcompeting native species and disrupting local ecosystems. From the ubiquitous boxwood to the seemingly innocent butterfly bush, many of our garden favorites are now on the chopping block.
Enter 'Plant This, Not That'
Elise Howard's book, 'Plant This, Not That', is a gardener's manifesto, offering a practical guide to this new approach. With over 200 examples, she suggests native alternatives for a wide range of common garden plants. It's not just about what to remove but, more importantly, what to put in its place.
A Personal Journey
Howard's journey into the world of native plants began as a volunteer in New York City's Riverside Park. Over 15 years, her passion grew, leading her to author this comprehensive guide. Her personal experiences, like dealing with invasive plants in her new home in Western Massachusetts, add a layer of authenticity to her advice.
The Five Principles
The book is structured around five key principles, offering a roadmap for gardeners. The first is a simple yet powerful idea: aim for a mainly native garden. This isn't about being purist; it's about making a significant shift towards native species.
The second principle is a call to consider both wildlife and beauty. Native plants aren't just about supporting pollinators; they provide shelter and food for a variety of creatures. Howard encourages gardeners to celebrate the signs of wildlife, like the distinctive semi-circular cuts left by leafcutter bees.
Layering and Plant Communities
The next two principles focus on the structure of the garden. Howard suggests thinking in layers, from the canopy to the ground, to support different wildlife species. She also emphasizes the importance of plant communities, where plants support each other above and below the ground, reducing the need for artificial supports and mulches.
Practical Substitutions
The heart of the book lies in its practical advice. For instance, instead of boxwood, Howard suggests Ilex glabra, a holly that provides similar aesthetics with added benefits for wildlife. For Japanese barberry, she recommends ninebark, a shrub with attractive peeling bark and good winter interest.
The Butterfly Bush Conundrum
One of the most interesting discussions revolves around the butterfly bush (Buddleja). While it attracts insects, it doesn't support their full life cycle. Howard suggests native alternatives like Eutrochium (Joe-pye weed) and Asclepias (milkweeds), which are not only beautiful but also support the full lifecycle of various insects, including the monarch butterfly.
The Power of Personal Choice
What I find most compelling about Howard's approach is the emphasis on personal choice and gradual change. She understands that not everyone can or wants to go fully native overnight. By offering a range of options and suggesting mixed hedges, she encourages gardeners to make small changes that collectively can have a big impact.
The Redbud Dream
Howard's personal favorite, the redbud (Cercis canadensis), is a testament to the beauty of native plants. With its spectacular spring blooms and heart-shaped leaves, it's a plant that can thrive in various garden settings, from woodland edges to understory areas.
A New Gardening Philosophy
'Plant This, Not That' is more than just a book; it's a call to action. It challenges gardeners to rethink their green spaces, not as static displays but as dynamic ecosystems. By embracing native plants, we can create gardens that are not only visually appealing but also contribute positively to the local environment.
In a world where environmental concerns are increasingly pressing, this book offers a practical, hopeful approach. It's not about guilt or scolding but about empowerment and the joy of discovery. As gardeners, we have the power to make a difference, one plant at a time.
