Climate change, the long-term change in the Earth’s temperature, is bringing massive and detrimental consequences. What are these consequences and how do they affect us? Have you noticed the increasingly extreme weather? Like heat waves or flooding rains? The vast majority of scientists agree that human activity is the primary cause of climate change, so it is up to us to take the right steps toward change. 

The connection between gardening and climate change

What can Minnesotans do? There are many actions we can take, but let’s start with what you can do at home in your yard: plant a rain garden filled with native plants.

Rain gardens are shallow basins designed to absorb rainwater. The water is taken up by the plants in the garden or is cleaned naturally as it soaks deep into the earth. Rain gardens divert stormwater from running off our roofs, roads, sidewalks and other hard surfaces into sewers that empty pollutants and debris into our lakes and rivers. They help to keep protect our natural bodies of water.

How native plants are one major key to change

How does planting native plants help fight climate change? The long roots of native plants help rain gardens do their job of absorbing stormwater. When established, native plants thrive beautifully while requiring less care and water. They also provide food and shelter for our wildlife, especially pollinators.

If you look at the illustration below, you can compare traditional turf grass roots (far left) to native plant roots.

Are you interested in being a part of this mission to tackle climate change? Join us, and turn your yard into a place that protects wildlife and helps keep our water clean. We can point you to a plethora of resources.

— Jacqueline Nguyen, Metro Blooms Marketing + Communications Specialist