Native Plant Crew

Why Native Plants are better for Birds and People!

Great article by National Audubon, explaining the benefits of native plants

What is a Native Plant Garden?

Our coastal hillsides are covered with plants that some people call weeds, but anyone who takes time to learn about these "weeds" soon finds a vast number of attractive and interesting native species that would make great additions to their gardens.  San Diego Coastal Sage Scrub rivals the rainforest for the diversity of plant and animal life!

The BVAS native plant garden is a small scale demonstration habitat that showcases these native species and increases our understanding of the world as we observe the web of life in action.

Native plants are those plants that have evolved here, not those introduced by man.  When a plant has been introduced within the past few hundred years, the necessary adaptations haven't had time to occur.  Often native species are lost as the new plant takes over.  Pampas grass is an example of an introduced plant. It does not provide food or shelter and has destroyed native areas.

Isn't it Hard to Maintain?

Native plant gardens are easier to maintain than ornamental gardens once you understand them.  The plants rest during Summer/Fall and grow in Winter. If native plants are watered in the late summer, the dormant season is interrupted and harmful bugs and microbes continue to multiply.  It is best to let the garden dry out for one month during August.  The growing season starts with the rains in October.  Pruning is twice a year in January and August.