The U.S. Department of Agriculture Joins Keep America Beautiful (KAB) and its affiliates and its partners to support local ecosystems by planting native species of trees, shrubs, and plants through a new call to action. The first National Planting Day will take place on Saturday, Sept. 8, and will continue with activities happening through November.
National Planting Day celebrates the value and power of native species in restoring ecological balance to the environment, while creating greener, more beautiful communities. Why plant natives? Native species of plants and wildlife are losing ground to suburbanization, and we know we know that natives provide the best sources of habitat for wildlife.
Native plants are hardy, and require lower maintenance and less water than other plants.
September 8: Plant a tree, water a garden, harvest good intentions
“As the scarcity of water becomes a significant national issue, it’s important that we focus on the planting of more ecologically appropriate, drought-tolerant native species,” said Matt McKenna, president and CEO of Keep America Beautiful. “National Planting Day is a call to action designed to encourage people to plant natives at home, or to join a volunteer planting effort to beautify their community.”
Together, the The United States Department of Agriculture’s and KAB are creating food gardens across the U.S. Communities — recognized for growing ‘People’s Gardens’ must incorporate sustainable practices such as planting native species. The simple practice of planting natives helps the environment by conserving water, protecting soil from erosion and providing habitat for wildlife.
People’s Gardens across the country are being called upon to participate in National Planting Day. Community groups, businesses and avid gardeners of all kinds are encouraged to register at planting events on September 8th.
What can you do for the earth and your environment this month?