Vol. II, No. 4, May 2003
Use of Native Plants in the Outdoor Environment
In using plants in the outdoor environment, we select plants that are called native plants. Native plants are those that evolved naturally in North America before humans introduced plants from distant places. Native plants have several appealing factors:
- Native plants have evolved and adapted to local conditions over thousands of years. They are vigorous and hardy so they can survive winter cold and summer heat. Once established, they require no irrigation or fertilization.
- Native plants stay put. Each native plant is a member of a community that includes other plants, animals and microorganisms. The natural balance stays in check. Native plants rarely become invasive.
- Native plants are interesting. The diversity of native plants includes beautiful flowers and foliage. Native shrubs and trees can provide a variety of heights, shapes and textures in the outdoor environment. Native plants can also help teach children about their local heritage and provide tangible links to their past.
White Hutchinson can create an outdoor environment for your classroom that
is rich with plant diversity and easy to maintain.