What is one of the primary benefits of using native plants in landscaping?

What is one of the primary benefits of using native plants in landscaping?

• A. They are generally smaller in size.
• B. They thrive with minimal water and care.
• C. They have longer blooming periods.
• D. They attract invasive species.

Answer: (B)

The primary benefit of using native plants in landscaping is that they thrive with minimal water and care. Native plants are well adapted to the local climate, soil, and ecosystem, which means they require less maintenance compared to non-native species. This adaptability allows them to survive on natural rainfall without the need for extensive irrigation, making them an environmentally sustainable choice. Additionally, their natural resistance to local pests and diseases often reduces the need for chemical fertilizers and pesticides, contributing to a healthier landscape. While other options present interesting features, they do not encapsulate the core advantage of utilizing native plants. For instance, the notion that native plants might be smaller is not universally true, as many native plants can be quite large. The idea of longer blooming periods is also inaccurate in a general sense, as blooming times can vary widely across different species. Lastly, the attraction of invasive species contradicts the ecological benefit of using natives, as these plants are more effective at supporting local wildlife without inviting harmful invaders. Overall, the minimal water and care requirement stands out as a substantial ecological and economic benefit of employing native plants in landscaping.

The primary benefit of using native plants in landscaping is that they thrive with minimal water and care. Native plants are well adapted to the local climate, soil, and ecosystem, which means they require less maintenance compared to non-native species. This adaptability allows them to survive on natural rainfall without the need for extensive irrigation, making them an environmentally sustainable choice. Additionally, their natural resistance to local pests and diseases often reduces the need for chemical fertilizers and pesticides, contributing to a healthier landscape.

While other options present interesting features, they do not encapsulate the core advantage of utilizing native plants. For instance, the notion that native plants might be smaller is not universally true, as many native plants can be quite large. The idea of longer blooming periods is also inaccurate in a general sense, as blooming times can vary widely across different species. Lastly, the attraction of invasive species contradicts the ecological benefit of using natives, as these plants are more effective at supporting local wildlife without inviting harmful invaders. Overall, the minimal water and care requirement stands out as a substantial ecological and economic benefit of employing native plants in landscaping.