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Real Estate Advertorial fy ‘ bu Gardening with climate change in mind means selecting native plants that thrive with less water and more heat. Learn how to make lawns and garden: i friendly. Benefits of planting native species Spring and summer present ideal grow- ing conditions for many plants, making these seasons an ideal time to tend to lawns and gardens. Though it’s easy to succumb to the temptation of exotic plants, avid gardeners and eco-conscious planters recognize the significance of native plants. Novices may not realize that native plants are much better for a landscape and the local ecosystem it calls home. Recognition of the many benefits of native plants can make for healthier lawns and gardens and a healthier planet as well. + Native plants are built for local climates. One of the issues gardeners who plant exotic plants run into is keeping those plants thriv- ing when weather turns harsh. For example, exotic plants may require extra watering in areas that experience drought or even long periods without precipitation in spring and notably summer. Planting native plants can help to combat water shortages by reduc- ing the need to water plants if conditions become dry in late spring and summer. + Native plants save money. It’s also impor- tant to note that native plants save home- wners money. Because they're capable of thriving in local conditions, native plants tend to require less watering, which can hep home- owners reduce their utility costs. But native plants also require less upkeep, which means homeowners can save on potentially costly, not to mention eco-unfriendly, pesticides and other amendments in order to maintain the look of exotic plants. And though it’s not always the case, exotic plants tend to cost more at nurseries than natives. + Native plants save gardeners time. In addition to saving money, native plants don't require as much attention. Though spring and summer is a great time to be in the yard, it's also a great time to be out and about. Because native plants thrive in local condi- tions, gardeners won't need to spend much of their free time tending to them. Exotics tend to require a lot of extra attention and effort, especially when conditions become harsh. Spending more time outdoors in harsh weather does not appeal to most gardeners. + Native plants blend in with an existing landscape. Native plants look natural within an existing landscape, adding some instant aesthetic appeal without breaking the bank. When planting exotics, homeowners may feel a need to redesign their entire gardens to create a certain look (think Japanese garden). That can quickly consume a budget and take up a lot of free time in both the short- and long-term. Planting season marks a great time to revitalize a landscape. Choosing native plants when doing so pays numerous dividends for homeowners and the planet they call home. MCC nko. realtor Anita Sullivan Broker )5-466-4900 Matt Sullivan Sales Representative Anthony Danko Sales Representative 289-772-8822 TN LEPAC Sn Wilma Fournier Sales Representative Stacey Robinson Broker 905-464-7653 James Stanley, Sales Representative 905-464-2640 a 3 2 a H 3 Z a 2 = 2 8 8 i y: 3