Native Plant Expo scheduled June 3

Learn about native plants and their many benefits from local conservation organizations at the Landscape Revival Native Plant Expo & Market, June 3, 9am-3pm. You will be able to purchase plants native to Minnesota and accessories from a variety of local growers (cash/check only). No cultivars, no systematic insecticides. The Expo will be held at the Cub Foods Community Pavilion, 1201 Larpenteur Ave. W.

Photo right: Native Plant Expo file photo from 2015.

Many of us don’t think about choosing plants that are native to Minnesota when we plan our yards and gardens. Instead, we pick plants for their color, their hardiness or how quickly they grow. But by choosing Minnesota native plants—plant species that have grown in this area for hundreds of years and are thus well adapted to our conditions—we can create spectacular gardens that are a haven for wildlife and protect our lakes and the Mississippi River.

In Minnesota, there are trends that threaten wildlife and environmental quality. Bees, butterflies, birds and other animals are quickly losing their habitat as our growing population creates the need for more land development. These developments also change how water moves over the landscape and create more runoff where water would naturally soak into the soil. Additionally, the spread of invasive plants is degrading and fragmenting the habitat that remains. You can help by growing native plant species that sustain wildlife in ways that introduced plants do not.

Begin creating your wildlife oasis by talking to professionals at the Landscape Revival. You can start small. The beauty and rewards you discover will make you want to do more!

Landscape Revival is organized by a dedicated group of volunteers, and sponsored by St. Paul Audubon Society, Blue Thumb, Wild Ones, and Neighborhood Greening. Native growers participating in the sale do not use systemic pesticides.