There are so many tree species to choose from to plant in your garden. To promote biodiversity and focus on caring for the local birds, insects and wildlife the best option would be to choose indigenous trees. As these trees have been acclimated to our weather conditions and soil over many years they are much hardier and have a better chance at surviving the elements than trees that are not indigenous.
Choosing an indigenous option for your garden provides the native birds and insects the food sources they need and have been accustomed to. Our native ecosystem is by and large supportive of more than just birds but insects too. Insects, birds and small mammals are dependent on the shelter provided by our native trees. Woodpeckers peck at trees to eat the insects, caterpillars eat the leaves, bees use flowering trees pollen, crevices in branches and holes in the trees create a safe space for birds to nest.
Indigenous trees have a better chance at survival because they have grown to adapt to the climate. They can survive the cold winters and the warm summers of their native regions’ climate. Certain indigenous trees will even help with the stability of the surrounding soil. A tree like the wild olive which is native to South Africa can help with soil stability and prevent soil erosion.
Native trees are accustomed to the soil conditions; this means that when you plant a native tree in healthy soil they will be less likely to need fertilizer as they recieve all the nutrients they need from the soil where they are planted.
Once the native trees have been planted and established they will need less water. Water saver! Because these trees are native they are used to the climate and expect rain in the winter and sun in the summer. Don’t forget to water your tree though! Sometimes the rainfall is not sufficient and especially in summer it is important to water your trees to keep their roots moist.
They are non-invasive. Native trees and shrubs have natural limits that help keep their growth in check. They won’t take over an area of unrestricted growth. Trees that are planted in their native regions have an extraordinary ability to flourish as they require less watering, native trees are usually resistant to local pests (they have spent years in their native environments after all!) and are the perfect add on to maintain the local ecosystem!
Planting trees in an environment where they have adapted means they will have a better chance at a long and healthy life. By planting and taking care of native tree species you are doing your part in conserving our rich natural heritage while giving the local birds, insects, bees and wildlife a home and source of food they are used to.