Biodiversity on our planet depends on the intricate relationships between plants and fauna—from insects to larger animals. Landscape designers have a responsibility to foster these flora-fauna connections, creating spaces that support the health, safety, and welfare of all wildlife, alongside human needs.

Prioritizing Flora-Fauna Relationships

Here are key considerations for designing landscapes that nurture ecological relationships:

• Use Native Plants
  Native plants form the foundation of the food web and are critical to maintaining biodiversity in the landscape. They directly support local wildlife by providing food, shelter, and habitat.

• Select Non-Native Plants with Care
  While native plants are ideal, some non-native plants can also support wildlife. For example, non-native species may provide nectar or pollen, particularly in ornamental landscapes. Prioritize plants that:

• Are not sterile or overly modified (e.g., avoid altered flower shapes or leaf colors).

• Resemble their wild forms and maintain ecological functionality.

• Are closely related to regional natives or share genera (e.g., choosing Amelanchier laevigatus over Amelanchier alnifolia in the Pacific Northwest).

• Diversity Equals Resilience
  Diverse plant communities are more resilient to environmental changes. Avoid oversimplifying plant selections to focus solely on the most resilient species, as this can reduce biodiversity and have cascading effects on wildlife.

• Support Life Cycles and Nutrient Cycling
  Design and maintain landscapes to allow wildlife to complete their life cycles. Maintenance practices should also promote natural nutrient and carbon cycling within the ecosystem.

• Protect Endangered Plant Communities
  Where possible, prioritize maintaining endangered plant species and communities, especially in areas with conditions best suited for their survival.

• Embrace Complexity and Collaborate
  Climate-conscious design often requires embracing complexity and uncertainty. In larger projects, include biologists or ecologists as collaborators to ensure the design supports ecological health.