Improve Carbon Sequestration Native plants help mitigate climate change by naturally capturing and storing more carbon dioxide from the air. Carbon dioxide is one of the major greenhouse gases that drives global warming.
Native plants help with this because many have extremely deep and long root systems, which allows them to absorb and store more carbon. This also helps build more organic matter into the soil which keeps carbon locked away.
Economic and Personal Benefits Native plants offer plenty of environmental benefits, but they also offer personal benefits to the homeowner, too. Here are a few:
• Reduced Maintenance Costs: They are adapted to local conditions, requiring less water, fertilizer, and ongoing care.
• Increased Property Value: Thoughtfully designed native landscapes can enhance curb appeal and demonstrate environmental stewardship.
• Personal Satisfaction: Creating a landscape that supports local ecology provides a profound sense of connection to the natural world and can draw pollinators into the area.
Implementation Strategies
For homeowners looking to take advantage of the new law, consider these implementation strategies:
• Start Small: Begin with a dedicated garden area or specific section of your yard.
• Research Local Species: Consult local conservation groups or extension offices for region-specific native plant recommendations.
• Gradual Transition: Replace non-native plants incrementally to minimize disruption.
• Document and Communicate: Keep records of your native plantings and be prepared to discuss their ecological benefits with HOA boards.
A CALL TO ECOLOGICAL ACTION The Illinois Native Homeowner’s Landscaping Act offers homeowners the opportunity to create a more harmonious landscape by embracing the use of native plants. Homeowners with an HOA can now become partners in environmental conservation, while gaining some of the personal benefits that come from planting pollinator gardens.
Sustainable landscaping begins in our own backyards, and more Illinois homeowners just gained the freedom to participate through the Illinois Native Homeowner’s Landscaping Act. Doing so comes with a large variety of ecological and personal benefits. If you have questions about how you can participate and grow your own pollinator garden with native plants, a local nursery specializing in native plants can help you get started!
cai-illinois.org • 847.301.7505 | 59
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