Native plants are species that have naturally co-evolved in a specific region, habitat, or ecosystem for hundreds or even thousands of years without human introduction.
They are adapted to local conditions and provide food and shelter for insects, birds, and other wildlife.
Native plants play a crucial role in ecosystem health and recovery after disturbances, and their conservation is essential for maintaining wildlife health and ecological balance.
Native species play a crucial role in promoting biodiversity by supporting a large number of animals by supplying food and shelter. Native species serve as a natural stormwater management tool. One prime example of these benefits is a native oak tree.
A single oak tree can support more than 500 types of caterpillars. This is important as caterpillars mature into adult pollinators and because bird species rely on specific caterpillars to feed their young and cannot create a nest in an area without them. Ornamental species may only support 10 types of caterpillars, so caterpillars and birds suffer without native species like oaks.
Leaf litter under a single oak can hold up to two inches of rainfall until it can seep into the ground. Without this, that rain runs off to the streets, sewers and rivers and adds to the potential for flash flooding.
The Tiny Forest contains over 50 native white oaks, red oaks, and swamp white oaks.
Native Seed Library at the Summit Free Public Library
What is it?
The Native Seed Library is a collection of native seeds that are freely available to all library users. The purpose of the Native Seed Library is to encourage local residents to grow native plants that are sustainable and environmentally friendly additions to their gardens.
How does it work?
The Native Seeds Library operates on the honor system and allows patrons to access and take home up to three free seed packets per season. Library staff, in partnership with volunteers from the Summit Environmental Commission and the Friends of the Library, harvest native seeds from the City of Summit Tiny Forest. Once harvested, seeds are packaged and added to the library's collection of free seeds. The Friends of the Library also supplement the collection of seeds in order to provide more variety.
Where is it?
The Native Seed Library is located on the first floor of the Summit Free Public Library, to the right of the Circulation Desk before the Quiet Study Rooms.
Who can I contact if I have questions or if I am interested in volunteering?
