Native plants are plants that were originally planted in Bangalore. They may not look as pretty as exotic plants, but they will thrive in your garden because they were designed to survive in your climate. People often ask for foreign plants that are not native to India. Invasive species are plants that were introduced into an area where they didn't naturally occur, often without proper consideration of the environmental impact. They may become naturalized, meaning they spread and grow rapidly, displacing native flora and fauna. Invasive species can cause major ecological damage and harm human health. Native plants are those that originated in the region where they are found. Native plants are usually adapted to local conditions and do not pose a threat to ecosystems. There are many benefits to using native plants instead of non-native plants in your garden. Here are five challenges of using native plants in your garden and avoiding invasive species. 1. Non-native plants can outcompete native plants Non-native plants can outgrow native plants. This means that non-natives can crowd out native plants and prevent them from growing. Some non-native plants can even kill native plants outright. 2. Non-native plants don't provide food for wildlife Some non-native plants are poisonous to animals. For example, kudzu vine has been known to choke birds and small mammals. Other non-native plants can attract insects that prey on native plants. 3. Non-native plants are more expensive than native plants Many non-native plants cost more money than native plants. This is because non-native plants require extra care and maintenance. 4. Non-native plants aren't always better for the environment While some non-native plants are good for the environment, others are bad for the environment. For instance, non-native plants can take over valuable habitat and disrupt the ecosystem. 5. Non-native plants may contain harmful chemicals Many non-native flowers and vegetables contain pesticides and herbicides. These chemicals can pollute soil and water supplies. To avoid these problems, use native plants in your garden. 6. Use native plants to create beautiful gardens Use native plants to create beautiful landscapes. The beauty of native plants is that they are adapted to their environments. They thrive in different climates and habitats. 7. Avoid invasive species Avoiding invasive species is important for both humans and the environment. Invasive species can harm people's health and destroy ecosystems. The most common invasive species include Asian carp, zebra mussels, and fire ants. To avoid these invasive species, choose native plants instead of nonnative plants. 8. Choose native plants for landscaping projects Landscaping projects can be costly. If you want to save money, consider choosing native plants instead of nonnatives. Choose native plants that are suitable for your climate and location. For example, if you live in a desert area, choose drought-tolerant plants. 9. Choose native plants for your home Choosing native plants for your home can make it look more attractive and increase its value. When you buy a house, you're buying a piece of land. Landscaping makes your property more appealing. Choosing native plants for your yard can improve the appearance of your home. 10. Choose native plants for school grounds Schools should use native plants to beautify their campuses. Using native plants helps students learn about nature while improving the aesthetics of the campus. Native plants are beneficial for schools because they promote learning and help students develop positive attitudes toward nature. Next step Gardener services Maintenance gardener Setup gardener Balcony gardener Vegetable gardener Flower gardener Virtual garden consultation Landscaping services Landscape design Landscape garden maintenance Online nursery Organic pesticides and fertilizers Plant media Organic seeds Further Reading Importance of Native Plants 10 Lesser Known Native Plants Ethical Methods of Gardening 12 Months Flowering Plants in India Happy Gardening! Dr. Vandana Co-Founder, UrbanMali