The City of Greensboro, in partnership with the T. Gilbert Pearson Audubon Society chapter of the National Audubon Society, is celebrating North Carolina Native Plants Week, October 19-25, 2026. The observance aligns with Governor Josh Stein’s 2026 resolution recognizing the importance of native plants to the state’s biodiversity, natural heritage, and environmental resilience.
As part of the celebration, the T. Gilbert Pearson Audubon Society (TGPAS) will host a free nature walk along the Downtown Greenway on Wednesday, October 21, from 3-4:30 pm. More information can be found at TGPAS Nature Walk.
What are native plants?
Native plants are species that occur naturally within a region, having evolved and adapted over thousands of years to local soils, climate, and wildlife. North Carolina is home to thousands of native plant species, many of which are not found anywhere else in the world. These plants form the ecological foundation for healthy wildlife populations and thriving natural landscapes.
Nearly 96 percent of land birds rely on insects, such as caterpillars, to feed their young. Native plants sustain these insect populations, providing essential food sources for breeding birds. In contrast, many non-native plants contain chemical compounds that local insects cannot digest, creating an ecological imbalance that threatens the survival of birds and other wildlife.
By planting and protecting native species in yards, parks, and community spaces, residents can help restore natural food webs, reduce the spread of invasive species, and build a more resilient local ecosystem.
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Greensboro
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