ANNAPOLIS, MD (April 22, 2026) ~ Annapolis, MD - In honor of Earth Day, the Maryland Department of Agriculture and Maryland's Best have joined other states in declaring May as Native Plant Month. This designation recognizes the crucial role that native plants play in maintaining healthy ecosystems, resilient landscapes, and diverse local biodiversity.

Maryland's Native Plant Month aims to highlight the importance of trees, shrubs, grasses, and wildflowers that have evolved over thousands of years to thrive in the state. These plants are essential for regional ecosystems as they provide food and shelter for pollinators, birds, and wildlife. They also improve soil health, reduce erosion, and restore water quality. With their deep roots, native plants act as a natural filtration system for water while also stabilizing shorelines and capturing runoff to support the Chesapeake Bay watershed and the state's renowned seafood industry.

"Native plants play a vital role in maintaining a healthy ecosystem," says Maryland Department of Agriculture Secretary Kevin Atticks. "We encourage consumers, landscapers, city planners, and others to visit our certified nurseries to learn about the benefits of planting natives for the environment."

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Whether on a large property or in a small outdoor container garden, individuals can choose native plants to support local wildlife. These plants also require less water and maintenance compared to non-native species, making them a smart choice for homeowners and municipalities alike. To learn more about locally native plants, residents can visit the University of Maryland Extension's Native Plant Guide for the Piedmont Region or one of Maryland's 35 certified nurseries specializing in native plants.

Throughout May, organizations across the state will host events and educational programs aimed at incorporating native plants into landscapes. These activities include community workshops on selecting and caring for native species; guided nature walks showcasing local flora and pollinator habitats; giveaways or sales of native plants in partnership with local nurseries; and volunteer planting days to restore natural areas and improve community green spaces.

For a list of local events, residents can visit the Maryland Native Plant Coalition on Substack. Additionally, native plants provide critical habitat for native bees, which are often overlooked but essential to the state's $3 billion agriculture industry. Bees pollinate 71 of the top 100 human food crops and are crucial for food production. Even "wind-pollinated" staples like corn and soybeans see higher yields when native bees are present.

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Unfortunately, many native bees, birds, and other wildlife are in decline due to habitat loss. The good news is that everyone can play a role in addressing this issue. According to nationally known author Doug Tallamy, "when gardeners use native plants, they can have beautiful landscapes - and play a vital role in protecting biodiversity."

For more information about native plants, residents can visit the University of Maryland Extension Native Plant Program. To learn more about Maryland's Best, individuals can visit their website or contact Director of Special Projects Kristin Hanna at the Maryland Department of Agriculture.

Maryland's Best encourages everyone to support local wildlife, food production, and the Chesapeake Bay by planting beautiful native plants. Let's all do our part in preserving our environment for future generations.

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