Native Plants and Leaves Key to Supporting Wildlife in Indiana

Linda Kilbert, White River Branch Manager for Johnson County Public Library, has been learning about the importance of using native plants in gardens to support wildlife. She recently made a presentation at JCPL's How To Festival last fall and discovered that native plants are critical for supporting caterpillars, which transfer energy from plants to animals by eating them. Many juvenile birds feed heavily on caterpillars, so with fewer caterpillars, bird populations will decline.

Kilbert found that without an abundance of native plants in gardens, there are fewer caterpillars. To support these creatures, gardeners should attract as many caterpillars as possible by planting native plants and providing places for them to overwinter. In cold climates like Indiana, many butterflies and moths reside in leaf litter during winter as protection from cold weather and predators.

The easiest way to help wildlife in winter is to leave leaves undisturbed on the ground. A thin layer of leaves will not hurt lawns but will protect soil and roots, hold moisture, and feed organisms that keep yards healthy. If gardeners feel the need to remove leaves in spring, wait until late spring to increase the chances of successful emergence of those overwintering within them.

Kilbert also suggests removing non-native and invasive plants from landscapes, as they disrupt ecosystems and harm native plants, animals, and insects that depend on native plants. JCPL is planning an opportunity for gardeners to learn more about invasive plant management, featuring Blair Beavers from the Johnson County Soil and Water District.