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Native hellstrip gardens:
Transform neglected spaces into a natural landscape that provides habitat and food for many species, such as butterflies, bees, and other local pollinators
With over 22% of native pollinators at risk of extinction in North America, planting more native plants can help provide them with the resources and habitat they need to thrive.
Absorb rainwater to reduce flooding and filter pollutants
Native plants absorb up to 10 times the amount of stormwater as a typical lawn and help prevent polluted runoff from entering waterways.
Increase infiltration and recharge our groundwater supply
In Pennington, increasing infiltration and recharging our groundwater supply is essential for replenishing aquifers, which help provide drinking water and sustain stream flow.
Reduce maintenance
Native plants are more resistant to environmental stressors and require much less maintenance (mowing and watering) to help them grow successfully.
Help mitigate the urban heat island effect
Native plants provide shade and promote evapotranspiration, which cools the air.
Educate the public about the beauty and importance of native plants
Root depth of native vs. non-native plants
How Root Depth Connects to Water Interception and Infiltration
How Root Depth Connects to Water Interception and Infiltration
Deeper and denser root systems, like those of many native plants, can absorb and retain significantly more rainfall. Their extensive roots act like a sponge and intercept water. This reduces erosion and surface runoff, which often carries pollutants into waterways.
Native plants with long roots help break up compacted soil and create channels that allow water to infiltrate deep underground. This not only reduces flooding but also recharges groundwater. In contrast, non-native plants like daylilies or fountain grass have shallow root systems that limit infiltration and allow water to evaporate or quickly run off.
Native plants are adapted to local climate and soil conditions, which means they have evolved to maximize water absorption and storage. Their deep roots allow them to access moisture far below the surface during dry periods, and they improve the soil structure, increasing its ability to hold water. Because non-native plants often have shallow, compact root systems they require more watering and maintenance because they aren't suited to the region's natural rainfall patterns.
Don't forget about trees!
Planting a tree in the hellstrip can provide numerous environmental and aesthetic benefits, including shade, improved air quality, stormwater absorption, and enhanced curb appeal.
If you're interested in having a tree planted in the hellstrip outside your home, you can contact Pennington Borough’s Shade Tree Commission. If your property is located on a county-maintained road, such as Delaware Avenue, Main Street, or Ingleside Avenue, you’ll need to reach out to Mercer County for approval and assistance.
Certain tree species are better suited for hellstrips due to space limitations and proximity to utilities. Small flowering trees, like the dogwood, are ideal because they offer beauty, seasonal interest, and are less likely to interfere with overhead wires or sidewalks. For a visual reference and more information on the benefits of planting a small flowering dogwood, see the image to the right (from https://mytree.itreetools.org/# ).
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