Native species provide ideal habitats for wildlife, are hardier, and require less water and ongoing maintenance than other ornamentals. Yet, they are losing ground to suburbanization, fragmented habitats, ornamental plants and invasive species, according to Keep America Beautiful (KAB).
That’s why KAB, its affiliates and partners, including the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s People’s Garden Initiative and U.S. Composting Council, are encouraging Americans to bolster local ecosystems by planting native species of trees, shrubs and plants on its second annual National Planting Day Sept. 7.
“National Planting Day is a call to action designed to encourage people to plant natives at home or to join a volunteer planting effort to beautify their community,” said Cori Rotter, senior manager of KAB brand development. “It’s increasingly important that we focus on the planting of more ecologically appropriate, drought-tolerant native species.”
Special planting activities will take place in dozens of communities this fall. Contact local KAB affiliates for details or register for events online.
