Historically, the agricultural sector has done little to mitigate carbon emissions. This is true to some extent with more farms abandoning traditional methods and adapting more technology-based processes.

Demands in farm production increase every year. And most farmers are forced to keep up with it. In the process this also increases the amount of greenhouse gas emissions. But with climate change becoming a serious global issue, it’s becoming impossible to ignore the contribution of the industry to the problem, and the effects of carbon emissions on agriculture. If we want farms to continue to be viable in the future, they have to do their part in combating climate change.

One way of reducing the risk of carbon emission is with native plants. Native plants are very effective in reducing carbon emissions in addition to being commercially viable. They have certain characteristics that make them ideal for helping farms combat the effects of climate change.

• They are adaptable – Native plants such as the Kanuka are resilient and can easily adapt to a rural environment.

• They are self-sustaining – Native plants grow in varying forms and degrees. Most blossom with divaricating growth forms, helping them spread out faster and withstand extreme environmental changes better.

• They help maintain biodiversity – Native plants can increase species activity within the area like native bird activity.

• They are economically important – Many native plants have medicinal value while some can be used for food, cosmetics, and construction.

What are the Type of Native Plants to Use Along with its Benefits

• Flax – Flax is one of the oldest native plants in the country. It’s a source of food for many animals and is prized for its medicinal value.

• Kauri – Kauri are large native trees. Though considered endangered, but kauris are perfect when it comes to reducing carbon emission. Considered as one of New Zealand’s mightiest trees, kauris provides shelter for endemic animals.

• Cabbage tree – If you have wetlands in your property, then this is the native plant for you. Cabbage trees have strong root system, which helps reduce erosion. It’s one of the native trees that continues to thrive despite environmental changes and threats. And like flax, cabbage trees have medicinal value.

• Kōwhai – Though listed as endangered, Kōwhai are durable. With its small leaflets and juvenile branches, it is home to many animal species.

Where Can You Get Native Plants

Above are just some of the native plants that can be used to combat climate change. There are thousands of species that can be used, depending on the area. But the question is; where can you get these native plants?

This is where Rural Design comes in. We have an extensive native plant nursery and can offer competitive pricing on a variety of native plants for your restoration project. Aside from that, we also do eco-sourcing of these native plants to ensure genetic variability and maximum adaptability.

We understand that choosing the right type of native plants vary.  So we will help you plan your restoration project conscious of your land’s need. We even aid in the selection of your native plants, all the way to its maintenance.

Climate change is quite a dilemma and mitigation can come down to the choices that you make. The choice of using native plants for your property is the right decision. The only thing to do now is to implement it with a professional like Rural Design. And that is giving your property enough protection from the threats of climate change.