native plants

Hawaii's Office of the Governor, under Josh Green, announced that new technology is being used in the fight against invasive species across the state. The announcement highlights the state government's efforts to protect Hawaii's fragile native ecosystems, which are among the most threatened in the world by invasive plants and animals.

Gardeners are being urged to embrace wilder, more natural gardening this year. The call to 'go wild' in the garden reflects a growing push to leave lawns and beds a little untidy, plant native species and make space for wildlife such as bees, butterflies and hedgehogs. Green-minded readers are taking the message on board as the new growing season gets under way.

A wildlife conservancy has teamed up with homeowners associations to begin planting donated native species across community grounds. The effort is aimed at restoring local habitat and supporting pollinators and wildlife in residential neighborhoods. It reflects a growing trend of HOAs replacing conventional landscaping with native plants to cut maintenance costs and boost biodiversity.

Gardeners in Sonoma County are being pointed to local resources and events where they can learn about using California native plants in their fall gardens. Native plant gardening is popular for its low water needs and benefits to pollinators, and autumn is considered a good season for planting. The item lists classes and places to get advice ahead of the fall planting season.

A gardening article is encouraging people to move beyond ornamental flower beds and turn their backyards into wildlife havens. The piece suggests that gardens designed with native plants, shelter and water can support far more birds, insects and small animals than purely decorative planting, as interest in wildlife-friendly gardening continues to grow.

Sonoma Garden Park is holding a native plant nursery sale, offering residents the chance to buy drought-tolerant, pollinator-friendly plants suited to the local climate. The event is promoted by the City of Sonoma and is aimed at gardeners interested in supporting local ecosystems and water-wise landscaping. Details on dates and plant availability are limited so far.