Native Plant Landscaping

A native plant is a plant species that naturally occurred within a given ecoregion before human interference. Our native plant species form the foundation of our ecosystems. One of the most important roles of native plants is their relationships with our native insect species, for 90% of insect are herbivores (eat plants),  and many of these insects are specialized so they can feed on 3 or fewer families of plants. Additionally, many of our insects can only lay their eggs, or build their nests on a single genus of plant.  If our ecosystems lack the native plants that our insects require, they will soon lack our native insects, many of which are important pollinators contributing to food production, and are a key food source for birds and mammals. 

A healthy ecosystem is one that is full of biodiversity. A biodiverse ecosystem provides the greatest spectrum of ecosystem services while supporting the highest population of insect and animal species. If you have a yard that you are able to maintain yourself, you too can help create a more healthy urban ecosystems in Indianapolis by planting natives.

Indiana Native Plant Resources

Here are some great resources to help you add natives plants and establish a more native ecosystem in your backyard: