Native Plants

Q. Who is Mr. Smarty Plants?

A: There are those who suspect Wildflower Center volunteers are the culpable and capable culprits. Yet, others think staff members play some, albeit small, role. You can torture us with your plant questions, but we will never reveal the Green Guru's secret identity.

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Ask Mr. Smarty Plants is a free service provided by the staff and volunteers at the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center.

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Please forgive us, but Mr. Smarty Plants has been overwhelmed by a flood of mail and must take a break for awhile to catch up. We hope to be accepting new questions again soon. Thank you!

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Sunday - March 14, 2004

From: Austin, TX
Region: Southwest
Topic: Wildflower Center, Xeriscapes
Title: Native plant landscaping
Answered by: Sage Kawecki

QUESTION:

How does native plant landscaping differ from xeriscaping?

ANSWER:

Xeriscaping is the landscaping practice of using low-water tolerant plants for arid climates. This practice often uses plants from arid regions of other countries. Native plant landscaping is the practice of using native plants, and choosing the right plant for the right ecological niche. Native plants are already adapted to the particular combination of soil, temperature, nutrients and rainfall of that region. It is a practice not limited to arid regions that can be employed whether you live in the arid southwest or the moist northwest.

Native Plants

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Sunday - March 14, 2004

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