In recent years, there has been a noticeable shift in the landscape design world, with homeowners, businesses, and public parks alike embracing the diverse beauty and environmental benefits of native plant design. It’s an approach that blends aesthetics with ecology, resulting in stunning landscapes that are in harmony with their local environment.
In one study in Mind, 95% of those interviewed said their mood improved after spending time outside, changing from depressed, stressed, and anxious to more calm and balanced. Other studies by Ulrich, Kim, and Cervinka show that time in nature or scenes of nature are associated with a positive mood, and psychological wellbeing, meaningfulness, and vitality. Over the last 3 years I, personally have seen what the benefits of being in nature every day will do for my overall mental health. Now, I do not know how I ever survived without this approach or slept well for that matter. Forest bathing has become a popular term over the last few years. Since surviving the pandemic, countless people developed habits of walking, hiking or simply sitting in their backyards as a stress relief management system. Do not go to the mall or your local gym to walk around an indoor track or even worse, a treadmill. Simply go outside and go for a walk – preferably in a place with trees, flowers and green. Breath it in and feel the restorative properties that occur when you immerse yourself in nature.
For the uninitiated, native plant design refers to the practice of using plants that are indigenous to a specific geographical region in landscaping projects. These plants have evolved naturally over thousands of years to survive and thrive in local conditions, making them a sustainable and low-maintenance choice. The overall look is something that many clients can not wrap their head around, not to mention that to them it just looks ugly. When I first started out in this field 16 years ago, I would have definitely fit into this category – not only did I not know many native species but more importantly, it was not pleasing to my eye. Over time I grew to appreciate the native plant aesthetic by noticing its beauty in nature, not in a design, but on a local hike or in the mountains. Taking that natural native look to a backyard in West Knoxville became the next challenge. The ultimate challenge is getting clients’ to appreciate it on their own without the designer having to tell them how beautiful it is.
The growing popularity of native plant design can be attributed to several factors. Firstly, using native plants in landscaping projects greatly reduces the need for water, fertilizers, and pesticides, making them a more environmentally friendly choice. They also help to create habitats for local wildlife, contributing to the preservation of biodiversity. We have talked about this subject matter in previous articles and will continue to make the connection between native plant design and the beneficial effects it brings to local biodiversity.
In addition, native plants offer a sense of place and authenticity that can’t be replicated with exotic species. They help to maintain the distinctive characteristics of local landscapes, creating a strong connection between people and the natural world around them. Not to mention that natives have a much better survival rate because they are conditioned to thrive in local soil conditions, summer drought or frigid temperatures in the winter months. Look at Knoxville over the past 2 winters, we have had below normal temperatures that have wreaked havoc on some plant species. Most of the victims have been non-natives like boxwoods, crape myrtle, distylium or indian hawthorne.
Furthermore, the use of native plants has been linked to health benefits. Research shows that being in nature, particularly in green spaces that resemble natural ecosystems, can reduce stress and increase feelings of well-being. Find a park or some type of green space near your home that makes you feel calm and visit this place as often as possible. If you can accomplish this type of setting in your own backyard, even better.
As the climate crisis deepens, the importance of sustainable landscaping practices is becoming increasingly clear. Native plant design offers a practical and beautiful solution, helping to create resilient landscapes that can withstand the impacts of climate change. As we talked about earlier in the article, natives have an advantage over non-indigenous plants because the climate and soil conditions are not foreign to them and little acclimation is needed.
Another factor driving the popularity of native plant design is the trend towards outdoor living. As more people seek to make the most of their outdoor spaces, there is a growing demand for landscapes that are not only beautiful, but also functional and sustainable. It has taken some time but the public, overall, has started to see the beauty in this type of designing. It is no longer an aesthetic that is only pushed by landscape designers. It is an amazing feeling when you show up for a new lead and the first words out of the client’s mouth is, “native plant design.” Usually these types of clients are very knowledgeable which makes your job as a designer easier because they know what they want.
Despite its many benefits, native plant design does pose some challenges. Finding the right plants can be difficult, particularly in urban areas where native species may not be readily available. However, a growing number of nurseries are now specializing in native plants, making it easier than ever to incorporate them into your landscape design. In Knoxville we are especially lucky to have a non-profit organization that collects native plants from sites scheduled for construction and disperses them to the community. NPRS or Native Plant Rescue Squad will sell these reclaimed plants to the public and also do plant installations for private homeowners and community programs as well. Taproot recently worked with NPRS to complete a wildflower garden in the Island Home Community. NPRS is also a great source of information about native plant design and what each individual plant can do for the health and beauty of your garden.
I am always amazed by the native plant lovers that have not acquainted themselves with their local native nursery – at this point, they exist, I promise, you just have to make an effort to find them. I do not know a better way to spend an afternoon than slowly moving through a native plant collection and imagining the possibilities. It doesn’t matter whether it is for work or relaxation it is always time well spent.
In conclusion, the popularity of native plant design is a testament to a broader cultural shift towards sustainability and environmental consciousness. As we continue to grapple with the impacts of climate change, it’s likely that this trend will only continue to grow. So, whether you’re planning a major landscaping project or simply looking to add a touch of nature to your outdoor space, consider embracing the beauty and benefits of native plants, your community and local environment will thank you.