Portland writer breaks down native plant movement, gardening episode artwork

EPISODE · Jul 9, 2026 · 21 MIN

Portland writer breaks down native plant movement, gardening

from OPB Audio · host Oregon Public Broadcasting

Proponents for growing native plants, especially in gardening, argue that because native species adapted and evolved in their surroundings, they are best suited for the climate, habitats and mutually beneficial relationships with species in the area. But does this still ring true as our planet continues to change? Can someone have a garden that mixes both introduced and native species that still benefit insects and animals? Ferris Jabr is a science writer and author of “Becoming Earth.” He set out to answer these questions in a new piece for the New York Times. He joins us to discuss the native plants movement, its challenges and benefits.

Episode metadata supplied by the publisher feed · Published Jul 9, 2026

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Portland writer breaks down native plant movement, gardening

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