H-E-B Partners with Native Plant Society to Promote Texas Native Plants
In an initiative that has garnered attention within the gardening community, H-E-B, a leading independent grocery store chain in the U.S., has teamed up with the Native Plant Society of Texas (NPSOT) to introduce a diverse range of Texas native plants to its customers. This collaboration aims to make gardening with native species more accessible to the general public.
The Initiative Launch
The partnership, known as the H-E-B Texas Native Plant Celebration, began in the fall of 2023 and has expanded into a spring plant sale. This ongoing program offers an assortment of native plants at more than 200 of H-E-B’s nearly 360 locations throughout Texas.
Expert Insights on Native Plants
“The extreme weather conditions we’ve faced recently highlight the importance of native plants that are adapted to Texas’ environment,” remarked Karen Guz, director of conservation at San Antonio Water System (SAWS). This sentiment underscores the resilience of native species, which typically require less water and care compared to non-native varieties.
David Rodriguez, horticulturist for Texas A&M Agrilife Extension in Bexar County, praised the selection of plants provided through this initiative, calling them “great and appropriate.” Furthermore, local gardener and educator Ashley Bird expressed her excitement about finding native plants like Bee Balm and Blackfoot Daisy readily available at H-E-B.
Engagement and Education
This weekend, March 22 and 23, representatives from NPSOT will staff informational tables at select H-E-B locations. These volunteers will be on hand to answer questions and explain the ecological benefits of planting native species.
Available Plant Varieties
H-E-B will offer 24 species of native plants, cultivated by Spring Creek Growers, a family-owned nursery based in Magnolia, Texas. Anahi Villarruel, a project manager at H-E-B, noted that this initiative aligns with the company’s sustainability efforts and is projected to distribute over 300,000 native plants to Texas households.
Accessibility of Native Plants
Historically, enthusiasts of native plants faced challenges in finding varieties at mainstream stores. This partnership redefines accessibility, enabling consumers to purchase flowering plants like Coreopsis and Wine Cup directly from their local grocery store. Joan Miller, a member of NPSOT, highlighted her satisfaction in finding less common species available at H-E-B.
Background of the Collaboration
The collaboration emerged in 2023 when NPSOT board members connected over shared goals of promoting native plants in commercial offerings. “It felt like everything came together perfectly,” stated NPSOT Executive Director Meg Inglis. The initial pilot program has transformed into a broader campaign emphasizing education and the significance of native plants in local landscapes.
Support from Local Nurseries
Local boutique nurseries have voiced their support for the initiative, acknowledging H-E-B’s role in elevating awareness of native plants. Drake White, owner of the Nectar Bar, described the company’s efforts as a positive step that enhances accessibility and affordability for the public. Donald Gerber of Pollinatives nursery reaffirmed this sentiment, noting that increasing native plant adoption benefits Texas’s ecosystems and conservation efforts.
Overall, the H-E-B and NPSOT partnership marks an important move towards promoting biodiversity in Texas while making native plants an integral part of community gardening practices.
