According to the U.S Environmental Protection Agency, the average American family uses more than 300 gallons of water per day at home [^1^]. When you consider the size of an average family, you realize that that’s quite a lot of water. The good news is that we can be proactive in mitigating this excessive use of water by merely turning to our yards and gardens. The even better news is that we can accomplish this with a simple strategy: planting native plants. Native plants provide one of the most effective and hassle-free methods of conserving water at home.
What Makes Native Plants Special?
Before delving into how native plants save water, let’s first understand what they are. Native plants are plants that have evolved in a specific region for thousands of years or plants that were present in a given area before human intervention [^2^]. Being in one place for such an extended period, these plants have naturally adapted to their local climate and soil type.
As a result, native plants often require less water, fertilizers, and maintenance than introduced species. They are more resistant to pests and diseases in their native environment, reducing the need for chemical interventions. Additionally, native plants collectively help in maintaining biodiversity in an ecosystem by providing habitat for wildlife.
Native Plants and Water Conservation
Superior Adaptation
The primary reason native plants are more water-efficient is due to their inherent adaptation. These plants have spent thousands of years adjusting to local conditions, including the natural rainfall patterns and climate fluctuations. As a result, they are expert survivors in their respective environments. They require less extra water beyond natural precipitation, thus conserving a significant amount of water.
Deep Root Systems
Another reason is the robust and deep root systems of many native plants. A deep root system means plants can absorb moisture from deep within the soil, making them less dependent on surface irrigation. For instance, some prairie grasses have roots reaching up to 15 feet deep, enabling them to survive even in prolonged drought conditions [^3^].
Host to Wildlife
Furthermore, native plants provide a habitat for local wildlife and host numerous insects, birds, and other animals. These fauna, in turn, play their part in conserving water by helping to maintain a healthy soil structure. Insects and small organisms burrow through the soil, aiding water filtration and absorption. Birds spread seeds, aiding plant propagation without the need for human-mediated irrigation-intensive methods.
Selecting Native Plants
Discussions about native plants cannot be generalized for all geographical locations because what is native in one place may be alien in another. Hence, it’s essential to research what plants are native to your particular region.
Organizations like the Native Plant Society and botanic gardens in multiple states have made it easier to identify these native species. They have plant databases and resources that list native plants according to different regions.
Moreover, these resources not only provide names but also offer information about each plant’s water needs, soil type, growth requirements, wildlife value, and other critical details.
Case Study: Denver Water’s [^4^]
Denver Water, the water utility serving Denver, Colorado, launched an annual ‘Water Wise Landscape’ competition to encourage water-saving landscapes. They advocated for using native and drought-resistant plants, producing landscapes that use 50-75% less water than a traditional lawn.
Denver Water reported that in 2018, participants of the program saved approximately 175 million gallons of water – enough to supply more than 1,000 single-family homes in Denver for a year.
In conclusion, incorporating native plants in our gardening practices could significantly cut down on our water usage. Not only do these plants conserve water, but they also invite a range of wildlife, reduce maintenance efforts, and add beauty to our landscapes with their unique and diverse appearances. The next time you think of adding a new plant to your garden, make it a native one.
References
[^1^]: Environmental Protection Agency. (2020). How We Use Water. EPA Website
[^2^]: Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center. (2020). Native Plants. LBJWC Website
[^3^]: Prairie Frontier. (2020). Native Wildflowers and Prairie Grasses. Prairie Frontier Website
[^4^]: Denver Water. (2018). Water wise landscape. Denver water website
