Rain is here and it is very welcome here in this area. Water levels are down all around and many towns and cities are under some sort of water conservation rules.

Last week I wrote about rain barrels and how they can help keep your gardens healthy. Our weather forecaster Daniela Lopez did a story this week on using native plants to help reduce the need for water. I am going to take the native plant story a little further. I am going to write about native trees and shrubs that also provide food and cover for wildlife while using less water and pesticides.

I like using plants and shrubs that perform dual functions. Many of us provide food for the wildlife in our yards -- why not provide natural food with plants that also provide beauty? With all the development in the area, we all need to do what we can to provide for our wildlife friends.

I also like to use plants, shrubs and trees that are native to the area. The reason native flora use less resources is that they have evolved in an area and are acclimated to the climate and soil conditions. Plants that are used to cooler, wetter weather would require more water and probably still not do well here due to the high temperatures.

Not only will the native plant do better because of it being acclimated to the climate, it will provide nectar, berries or nuts at the right time for the wildlife in the area. Some migrating birds and butterflies plan their arrivals during peak flower, seed, nut or berry production, thus ensuring an ample supply of food.

Some great shrubs native to our area that provide for wildlife are:
American Holly - Fruits are eaten by Bluebirds, Robins, Mockingbirds but also provide a place for the larvae for the Henry’s Elfin Butterfly.
American Beauty-berry - Fruits eaten by Mockingbirds, Finch, Bobwhite, Robin and Thrashers.

Here are some great native ground layer plants that like shade:
Columbine - Hummingbirds bees and butterflies benefit from this plant.
Indian Pink - Butterflies and hummingbirds.

Now some ground layer plants that like sun. These are two of my favorites:
Purple Cone flower - Seeds eaten by birds.
Black Eyed Susan - Seeds eaten by birds.
Coreopsis - Nectar source for hummingbirds, butterflies, plus the seeds are eaten by songbirds.

As you can see, there are many great plants available that will make your garden look great, provide for wildlife and not require a lot of maintenance and the use of natural resources.