Why using Delaware’s native plants during drought may be the natural choice – The News Journal

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Introduction

Delaware is currently facing severe drought conditions, with the entire state classified as being in a severe drought, according to the U.S. Drought Monitor.

As a response to this situation, Governor John Carney has declared a drought watch on October 25, urging residents to voluntarily reduce their outdoor water usage. While most plants in the region naturally stop growing during autumn in preparation for winter dormancy, some homeowners may still feel the need to water their lawns and use synthetic fertilizers and chemical pesticides to maintain a lush appearance.

However, environmental experts are advocating for a shift towards sustainable landscaping practices, with a focus on utilizing native plants as an alternative to traditional grass lawns.

The Benefits of Native Plants

Native plants not only support local wildlife but also create a healthier environment for residents and their communities. They require less water and pesticides, are better adapted to local conditions, and contribute to biodiversity. Some additional benefits of native plants include:

• Low maintenance, once established
• Minimal water and pesticide needs
• Promotion of biodiversity and stewardship of the natural environment
• Reduced carbon emissions from lawn care and increased capture of carbon dioxide by trees like oaks and maples

Creating Attractive Landscapes with Native Plants

Kerry Wilson, the habitat outreach manager for the Delaware Nature Society, assures homeowners that regionally native plants can still offer an attractive and organized landscape. She suggests options like black-eyed Susans, which provide an appealing appearance while also offering environmental benefits.

Many native plants offer showy flowers, produce colorful fruits and seeds, and undergo brilliant seasonal changes in vibrant colors during early spring, the heat of summer, and the cool of autumn. Fall is the best season to establish native trees, shrubs, and perennials, allowing them time to develop strong root systems before the next summer’s heat.

Resources and Guidance

Federal resources and local municipalities in New Castle, Kent, and Sussex counties offer detailed information and guidance to help determine which native trees and plants would thrive best in Delaware’s diverse natural environment. The Delaware Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control and Division of Fish and Wildlife also provide a list of non-native plants that can be found in Delaware, helping residents identify whether the plants and trees in their yards are native to the region.

Caring for Lawns during Drought

For those not ready to switch entirely to native landscaping, Delaware Livable Lawns offers drought-conscious lawn care tips:

• Wait until the soil is dried out before watering.
• Water every 7-10 days.
• Water slowly over 2-4 hours to avoid runoff.
• Ensure water penetrates 4-6 inches into the soil.
• Use timers on sprinklers to prevent over-watering.

Transitioning to Sustainable Landscapes

For residents interested in transitioning to sustainable, drought-tolerant landscapes, the Delaware Department of Agriculture provides a list of nurseries that offer native plants.

You can contact Anitra Johnson at ajohnson@delawareonline.com.

SDGs, Targets, and Indicators

1. Which SDGs are addressed or connected to the issues highlighted in the article?

• SDG 6: Clean Water and Sanitation
• SDG 13: Climate Action
• SDG 15: Life on Land

2. What specific targets under those SDGs can be identified based on the article’s content?

• SDG 6.4: By 2030, substantially increase water-use efficiency across all sectors and ensure sustainable withdrawals and supply of freshwater to address water scarcity.
• SDG 13.3: Improve education, awareness-raising, and human and institutional capacity on climate change mitigation, adaptation, impact reduction, and early warning.
• SDG 15.5: Take urgent and significant action to reduce the degradation of natural habitats, halt the loss of biodiversity, and protect and prevent the extinction of threatened species.

3. Are there any indicators mentioned or implied in the article that can be used to measure progress towards the identified targets?

• Water usage reduction: The article mentions that residents are encouraged to voluntarily reduce their outdoor water usage.
• Shift towards sustainable landscaping: The article emphasizes the benefits of native plants as an alternative to traditional grass lawns, indicating a shift towards more sustainable landscaping practices.
• Support for local wildlife: The article highlights that native plants support local wildlife, including native insects and birds, contributing to biodiversity.

Table: SDGs, Targets, and Indicators

Source: delawareonline.com