• Native plants are adapted to Northeast Ohio’s climate, meaning they require less water, fertilizer, and maintenance once established.

  • They provide essential food and habitat for local pollinators like bees, butterflies, and birds that depend on specific native species to survive.

  • Deep native root systems improve soil health and reduce erosion, especially during heavy Cleveland rains.

  • Native gardens help filter stormwater runoff before it reaches Lake Erie, reducing pollution in local streams and waterways.

  • They increase biodiversity by restoring small pockets of natural habitat across neighborhoods, strengthening the region’s overall ecosystem.

Why plant native species?