What are the environmental benefits of using native plants suggested by FNGLA?

The choice indicating that native plants support local wildlife and require less water and maintenance is correct because native plants are specifically adapted to the local climate and soils. This adaptation allows them to thrive with minimal input, making them a sustainable option for gardeners and landscapers.

By using native plants, you enhance the local ecosystem. These plants co-evolve with local wildlife, providing essential habitats and food sources for birds, insects, and other creatures. As they are adapted to the climatic conditions of the region, native plants typically require less irrigation and fertilization compared to non-native species, which may need more resources to grow successfully in an unfamiliar environment.

In contrast, the other options do not accurately reflect the key benefits of native plants. For instance, the suggestion that native plants require more water and frequent fertilization contradicts their low-maintenance nature. While some non-native plants might have longer flowering periods or faster growth rates, these traits are not universally applicable to all native plants or reasons for their environmental benefits. Ultimately, native plants yield significant ecological advantages by fostering local biodiversity and requiring fewer resources to thrive.