What is naturalization?

Naturalization is the process of reducing the amount of cultivated lawn in a yard and adding spaces that better represent the naturally occurring landscape of the region.

Naturalization takes research, planning and some initial work, but can result in an attractive, functional yard that is easy to maintain. In the face of pressures brought on by a changing climate and a growing city, naturalized areas support biodiversity and help keep our urban ecosystems healthy.

Naturalized gardens use less water, need less maintenance and can contribute to our urban forest.

Using many different native and non-invasive exotic plant species that grow and thrive together, you can create natural habitat in your own yard. Creatures may build nests or lay eggs, hibernate for the winter or just enjoy the shelter and safety of the garden.

The City of Waterloo is recognized as a Bee City due to our efforts to support native pollinators and their habitat. We do this through education and community stewardship on municipal parkland, and naturalized pollinator gardens are one way that residents can help too. Visit Bee City Canada to learn more.