How Native Plants Reduce CO₂ Emissions and Naturally Control Pests in Missouri Landscapes
How Native Plants Help Reduce CO₂ Emissions in Missouri
Reducing carbon emissions doesn’t always require big lifestyle changes. In fact, one of the most effective and overlooked ways homeowners can lower their carbon footprint starts right in their own yard.
By planting native plants, Missouri homeowners can reduce CO₂ emissions, improve soil health, and create a more resilient landscape that thrives with less water, fertilizer, and chemical pest control.
At Hackmann Lawn & Landscape, we believe smart landscaping choices can protect both your property and the environment without sacrificing beauty.
Why Native Plants Are Better at Capturing Carbon
Native plants evolved over thousands of years in Missouri’s climate and soil conditions. That gives them a powerful advantage:
- Deeper root systems that store more carbon underground
- Less need for mowing, reducing fuel emissions
- Minimal fertilizer use, lowering chemical runoff and emissions
- Improved soil biology, which naturally captures and stores carbon
Unlike turf grass alone, native plants work with nature instead of against it.
Natural Pest Control Without Chemicals
Another major benefit of native plants?
They attract
beneficial insects like ladybugs, lacewings, and native bees that naturally control pests.
This reduces the need for:
- Chemical pesticides
- Repeated applications
- Harmful treatments that disrupt pollinators
Healthy ecosystems balance themselves and native plants are the foundation.
Top 10 Missouri Native Plants That Reduce CO₂ & Control Pests
These plants are well-suited for Missouri landscapes and offer both environmental and functional benefits:
1. Purple Coneflower (Echinacea purpurea)
- Excellent carbon sequestration
- Attracts pollinators
- Naturally deters harmful insects
2. Little Bluestem Grass
- Deep roots improve soil carbon storage
- Requires minimal mowing
- Highly drought tolerant
3. Wild Bergamot (Bee Balm)
- Supports bees and butterflies
- Helps repel nuisance insects
- Thrives in Missouri soils
4. Black-Eyed Susan
- Fast-growing carbon absorber
- Supports beneficial insects
- Low maintenance
5. Switchgrass
- One of the best grasses for carbon capture
- Controls erosion naturally
- Excellent for larger landscapes
6. Milkweed
- Essential for monarch butterflies
- Reduces pest populations naturally
- Improves biodiversity
7. Prairie Dropseed
- Dense root system for carbon storage
- Elegant appearance
- Low water requirements
8. Eastern Redbud (Tree)
- Absorbs CO₂ year round
- Provides shade and cooling
- Native and low maintenance
9. Serviceberry
- Supports birds and beneficial insects
- Helps reduce pests organically
- Spring blooms add curb appeal
10. New England Aster
- Late-season pollinator support
- Improves ecosystem balance
- Reduces chemical dependency
How Native Landscaping Lowers Long Term Maintenance
Native plants mean:
- Less watering
- Less mowing
- Fewer chemicals
- Healthier lawns over time
That translates to lower emissions, lower costs, and better results.
Do native plants really reduce carbon emissions?
Yes. Native plants store carbon in their extensive root systems and reduce emissions by minimizing mowing, fertilizing, and irrigation needs.
Are native plants harder to maintain?
No. Once established, native plants typically require less maintenance than traditional turf or non native plants.
Can native plants still look professional and well-designed?
Absolutely. Native landscapes can be just as clean, structured, and visually striking as traditional designs when professionally planned.
Do native plants help with pest control?
Yes. They attract beneficial insects that naturally keep harmful pests in check, reducing the need for chemical pesticides.
Can Hackmann Lawn & Landscape help design a native plant landscape?
Yes. We specialize in designing and maintaining sustainable, Missouri friendly landscapes tailored to your property.
Final Thought: Small Changes, Big Impact
Planting native plants is one of the simplest ways Missouri homeowners can:
- Reduce their carbon footprint
- Improve lawn health
- Support pollinators
- Cut back on chemicals
And it all starts right in your yard.
