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Phone:1 888 975 6781 info@sendatree.ca |
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Order by phone - 1 888 975 6781 |
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Why plant Native Canadian plants? Rapid urbanization affects the balance of the eco system as it reduces the diversity of native plants and wildlife in natural areas. (Eco systems are communities of plants and animals including the physical environment they inhabit) Plants are considered native or indigenous, to a region, if they originated and are naturally occurring in that region. Many “wild” plants that we think of as native species were actually introduced during European settlement to North America. These introduced species contribute less to our local ecosystems. Examples of native plant communities in Toronto, include the globally rare Black Oak Tallgrass Savannah, found in the High Park area of Toronto, or Mixed Hardwood forest communities that include a variety of maples and nut trees. The best way to find out about native plant communities is to go out and see them. Contact a local naturalist or stewardship group for support and advice. Take a look at: Different plants in these communities have adapted to local soil conditions and climate. Plants within their community affect each other’s environment. For example, native trees tend to leaf out late in spring, allowing native spring wildflowers enough time to flower before they are shaded over. A non-native tree such as a Norway Maple, leafs out early and has a very dense canopy which shades out most plants from its understory, this in turn often leads to problems with soil erosion. Native wildflowers are perennial or self-seeding, which means you will not have to replace them every year. Woodland species are adapted to pushing through leaf litter while benefiting from its insulating, moisture retaining and fertilizing properties. This means that you save time, money and effort by not having to rake leaves, water or fertilize your naturalized garden. |
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