Wild Ones South Bend Chapter is working with South Bend Parks, Venues, and Arts in hosting its first native plant sale. Wild Ones, along with Naturally Native Nursery, will have over 50 different species of plants and shrubs available, all native to St. Joseph County. Several local ecology groups will be on hand for educational outreach, planting demonstrations, and tours of the park's Native Tree Trail.
Native plants are those that occur naturally in a region in which they evolved. They are the ecological basis upon which life depends, including birds and people. Without them and the insects that co-evolved with them, local birds cannot survive. Planting native plants helps ensure the biodiversity of a region while supporting our pollinators. Availability of native plant resources is crucial in increasing awareness of the environmental importance of native plant communities.
Unfortunately, most of the landscaping plants available in nurseries are from other countries. These exotic plants not only sever the food web, but many have become invasive pests, outcompeting native species and degrading habitat in remaining natural areas. Choosing native plants for landscaping not only helps wildlife but creates a healthier place for families and communities. Native plants are adapted to local environmental conditions and once established, they don’t require additional water, fertilizers, or regular maintenance.
Wild Ones promotes environmentally sound landscape practices that preserve biodiversity through the preservation, restoration and establishment of native plant communities. Wild Ones South Bend Chapter chartered in October of 2021, and works to fulfill its mission through education, advocacy, and community outreach. For more information about the group’s events and activities, and to see a list of the plants available at the sale, visit the website: southbend.wildones.org.