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Inside Irrigation03-01-03 | News
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A prevalent enemy to the wisdom of diversification has been the concept of ?EUR??,,????'??native.?EUR??,,????'?? The logic is that ?EUR??,,????'??if it originally grew here, we can be assured it will do well here now.?EUR??,,????'?? The idea of planting native is supported by myths that native plant material is insect and disease free, is easier to care for, is non-evasive, and needs less attention when it comes to irrigation. Take for example the Ponderosa Pine, Juniper, American Elm and Green Ash or all native to Nebraska, yet all have issues with disease, insects and irrigation. Natvie trees require the same amount of spraying, fertilizing and irrigation as introduced species; therefore, they are no more labor-saving or cost effective than their introduced counterparts. However, one introduced exotic tree in Nebraska, the Tree of Heaven, has grown in the region for more than a century. During this time, the species has remained insect and disease free. Furthermore, it will thrive under the worst possible conditions, requiring much less maintenance and watering than many natives.
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