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What about other plant Pollinators?

Another important question is “Do I have to have only native plants to make a difference?” Absolutely not! Aim for seventy percent of your yard to be native, including “nativars” (cultivated varieties of native species). There is no reason you shouldn’t plant a striking, ornamental evergreen like a Hinoki Cypress (Chamaecyparis obtusa) in a bed with Virginia Sweetspire (Itea virginica) and Coastal Doghobble (Leucothoe axillaris). Besides, do you really want to see Cape Cod without our famous Blue Hydrangea? Can you imagine?

A word on non-natives, or as we like to call them, “Introduced species.” The plant was introduced to North America after the colonists arrived. This was not for malicious intent, but to add beauty for various reasons. Some people wanted to collect and grow plants from exotic lands in their gardens. There were practical reasons as well. The Multi Flora Rose (Rosa multiflora) was introduced from Japan in the 1930’s as a way to control soil erosion and an attractive living fence. Unfortunately, in less than 20 years, it had become an aggressive and invasive weed. Introduced does NOT mean invasive, there is a difference. An “Invasive” plant is one that chokes out and destroys native wildlife and vegetation.

Whether your definition of native plants means North American Native, New England Native, Cape Cod Native, or simply the straight species of native plants, we have you covered! We offer a large selection of Native Perennials, Grasses, and Shrubs to help you create a backyard, wildlife oasis.

So, the Question is:

What is Native to you? Is it also native to North America, or does it have to be to New England only? Or even more specific, native to the Atlantic Coastal Pine Barrens on which we live, here on Cape Cod? Or are you looking just for pollinators? We have you covered! We have taken care to offer you a selection of North American native plants that grow well here along with hundreds of pollinator plants. Plants for the landscape, for naturalizing and even for your containers. All to invite biodiversity!

Want to learn more? Our staff recommends the following:

Tallamy, Douglas W. (2019) Nature’s Best Hope

Tallamy, Douglas W. (2007) Bringing Nature Home

Tallamy, Douglas W. (2021) The Nature of Oaks

Lorimer, Uli (2022) The Northeast Native Plant Primer

Richardson, M. and Jaffe, D. (2018) Native Plants of New England