Brighten your outdoor environment not just with glorious blooms, but with the beautiful birds, butterflies, and wildlife they attract! Strawberry Plains Audubon Center will host its popular native plant sale May 17 and 18 from 9 am to 4 pm—offering visitors a chance to take home some new additions that will update, freshen, and improve the health and character of their gardens.
Selecting native plants, those that have evolved with our local climate and pollinators and attract wildlife on many levels, is a win-win situation for gardeners, points out Mitch Robinson, Conservation Education Manager for Strawberry Plains.
Beeblossum, Guara lindheimeri, Siskiyou Pink
“They’re beautiful; they require less maintenance; because of natural adaptations, they rarely require pesticides or fertilizer. Native plants promote biodiversity; and they’re the foundation of nature’s
food chain, capturing the interest of a variety of fascinating animal and insect visitors to your yard.”
“Native plants are a wonderful way to attract wildlife while still adding beauty to your garden,” said Robinson, “and the sale itself is a lot of fun. It’s drawing more people each year as the secret gets out! The knowledge shared by experts about native plants during the sale, and the proceeds from plants purchased, helps Strawberry Plains pursue its mission to raise awareness of the importance of native plants for wildlife and a healthier environment for people, as well.”
The sale will be held rain or shine; shoppers are reminded to bring bags and boxes to transport their plant purchases. Expert ecologists and wildlife professionals will be on hand to answer questions and provide suggestions for the particular needs of your landscape. For more information visit
strawberry.audubon.org or call (662) 252-1155.
Foxglove, Penstemon digitalis, a hummingbird, bumblebee, and pollinator favorite
Why are Native Plants Better for Birds and People?
Native birds need native plants and the insects that have co-evolved with them. Most landscaping plants available in nurseries are exotic species from other countries. Many are prized for qualities that make them poor food sources for native birds—like having leaves that are unpalatable to native insects and caterpillars. With 96 percent of all terrestrial bird
species in North America feeding insects to their young, planting insect-proof exotic plants is like serving up plastic food. No insects? No birds.
- Simply put, native plants:
- Are the foundation of our natural food chain and the key for attracting and supporting birds, butterflies/pollinators and other wildlife
- Are adapted to our regional conditions and may require less maintenance and water, rarely needing the use of pesticides and fertilizers
- Promote biodiversity, helping strengthen and support local ecosystems
Wonderfull choice of natuve plants, and a great staff and volunteers to help you make your selections. Make a day of it and find out more about Strawberry Plains Audubon Center. You will not regret it.