Regenerative landscaping in practice not only beautifies our gardens but more importantly supports the local ecosystem. Utilizing native plants, especially those considered keystone species, is crucial for maintaining a healthy environment. Keystone species play a pivotal role in their ecological community, supporting a wide range of wildlife and maintaining an ecosystem's biodiversity. Let's dive deeper into what these plants are and how they contribute to the local wildlife and soil biology here in Spokane.
What Are Keystone Species?
A yard nestled amongst Ponderosa Pine trees - a keystone species in Spokane.
Keystone species are those plants that have a disproportionately large effect on their environment relative to their abundance. These plants support various species, including critical pollinators like bees and butterflies, birds, and other wildlife. In fact, 14% of native plants (the keystones) support 90% of butterfly and moth lepidoptera species.
This concept applies perfectly to regenerative landscaping and our quest to protect pollinators, mimic nature, and create relationships through use of space by emphasizing plants that provide essential services in their ecosystem.
Keystone Plants for Spokane
In the Spokane area, native plants serve as the backbone for local wildlife, offering food, shelter, and breeding grounds. The National Wildlife Federation and research by ecologists such as Dr. Doug Tallamy highlight the importance of certain native plants as keystones.
Spokane sits in a "border region" on the edge of two different ecoregions: Ecoregion 6 (Northwestern Forested Mountains) and Ecoregion 10 (North American Deserts). This creates an interesting amalgamation of keystone species common in both ecoregions that can be found in our general area. Check out the Keystone Species Plant List for each of these ecoregions in the links above.
An installation near Audubon Park with Globemallow, Rabbitbrush and Coreopsis with other drought tolerant and native plants.
Native flowering plants and trees that produce berries or nuts can serve as primary food sources for a variety of birds and mammals. Similarly, native grasses and shrubs provide shelter and nesting materials. The Washington State University Extension program recommends incorporating native and drought-tolerant plants suited to the Spokane County climate, ensuring your garden is both beautiful and beneficial to local ecosystems (WSU Extension).
Rabbitbrush: a keystone species with year-round interest.
Some of our favorite Keystone Species to use in landscaping are pictured throughout this article: Ponderosa Pine, Yellow Rabbitbrush, Goldenrod, and Western Aster.
Why Keystone Species Matter
The role of keystone species in an ecosystem is akin to that of a linchpin in a machine; remove them, and the system's efficiency dramatically decreases.
For wildlife, keystone plants provide necessary nutrition and habitat. These species support the entire food chain, including pollinators critical to the survival of many plant species we rely on for food.
Goldenrod (keystone species) in the prairie.
Moreover, keystone plants contribute to soil health by promoting a diverse microbial community. This diversity is crucial for nutrient recycling, soil structure, and overall ecosystem health. By choosing plants that serve multiple functions in the system, you enhance your landscape's resilience and sustainability.
Integrating Keystone Species into Landscaping
To incorporate keystone species into your Spokane garden, consider the following steps:
Research native plants that serve as key resources for local wildlife (You can start with the species lists we linked above if you like!). Look for species that offer nectar, seeds, or shelter. Many of these can be purchased from local nurseries like Blue Moon Garden and Nursery or Floralia Nursery, or online from Plants of the Wild.
Plan your garden layout to include a variety of plant types, ensuring a steady supply of food and habitat throughout the year.
Utilize resources like the National Wildlife Federation’s native plant finder tool to identify plants suited to your specific area.
Western Aster, a keystone species that spreads incredibly easily in the garden.
Incorporating keystone species into your landscape isn't just about ecological benefits; it's also about creating a more vibrant, dynamic garden. These plants tend to attract a diverse array of wildlife, turning your garden into a living showcase of Spokane's amazing
natural heritage.
Resources for Further Exploration
To further explore keystone species and native plants suitable for Spokane, check out our local nurseries and consult the following resources:
National Wildlife Federation’s Garden for Wildlife: A comprehensive guide to native plants by ecoregion.
Homegrown National Park: Dr. Doug Tallamy's grassroots call-to-action to regenerate biodiversity and ecosystem function by planting native plants and creating new ecological networks.
Washington State University Extension - Spokane County: Detailed information on native and drought-tolerant plants for Spokane County, including tips for landscaping with native plants.
By prioritizing keystone species in your garden, you're not only enhancing its beauty but also contributing to the health and sustainability of our local ecosystem here in Spokane. This approach to landscaping helps ensure that our natural world thrives for generations to come.