Native plants in the garden are perfect to plant if you want to attract bees, butterflies, moths and birds. But what exactly is a native plant?

Cornell University defines a native plant as one that has evolved over thousands of years in a specific area, adapting to the environmental conditions of its climate, geography and soil, without any human intervention.

Native plants are not only resilient, but they also grow well in a variety of soils, and require less water and fertilizer. Reduced labor is required to maintain them, and because of biological diversity, we, along with the pollinators, can enjoy and appreciate the beauty of a habitat that nourishes our wildlife.

There are many reasons that native plants should be our first choice when planting flowers, apart from their beauty and color.

In addition to their low maintenance, they support and attract our local wildlife such as birds that enjoy their seeds in the fall. Pollinators such as bees also benefit, as they pollinate flowers, our vegetable gardens and fruit trees, transferring pollen to hives for honey production.

Native plants are also more resistant to disease, thus reducing the use of pesticides which provides a healthier garden.

Finally, native flowers enrich our soil, and roots prevent erosion during heavy rains.

Garden centers are the best place to purchase the healthiest plants. Knowing your soil type, water requirements and whether the plant needs sun, shade or dappled sun will ensure proper growth.

Soil testing is performed at the Ohio State University Extension, and needs to be done only every three years.

The University of Minnesota suggests some beneficial native plants that need full sun are the Purple Coneflower, Bee Balm, also called Wild Bergamot, Black Eyed Susan, Milkweed and Columbine. There are extensive lists of native plants from which to choose, providing a variety of colors throughout the growing season from spring to fall.

Lists are found online, or call the OSU Extension, or check with your local garden center.

Unfortunately, many people dislike insects but 99% of insects are beneficial, both as pollinators or a source of food for birds. Using zappers to kill night insects is unnecessary.

By planting native species, we can help our gardens thrive and provide habitats for insects that prey upon invasive pests and help pollinate our gardens.

We need to reconsider our preference for non-native ornamental plants. While aesthetically pleasing, species like Japanese honeysuckle, Bradford pear trees, Norway maples, garlic mustard and purple loosestrife often outcompete native plants, displacing them due to their aggressive growth and resource dominance.

“Going native” is the best and easiest choice for a healthy garden with all the beauty for the insects and us, without as much work.

Kane Shipka is an Ohio State University Extension Master Gardener Volunteer in Mahoning County.