Use of Native Plants

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We previously discussed sustainability and the preservation of the environment. 

But what happens in case of an invasion of plants? Let’s discuss how native plants came to be as well as their evolution.

But first, let’s define native plants- they are plants that have been around since pretty much forever or have been introduced to a new climate long ago, and as they evolved, they grew to find a proper environment for development, thus invading territories and ecosystems.

Whenever these plants become accustomed to their environment, they tend to become invasive. But can this be seen as a threat or an opportunity? Let’s take a look at random herbs we often find on the side of the road. They actually present a number of benefits on the organism, yet they are seen as invasive weeds. Is this a paradox? Not really. The extent to which a herb is helpful to the organism is impacted by the way it is harvested, pollution levels, chemicals, as well as other herbs growing around.

We will not advise you on how to eradicate these plants, but rather to use them as long as they come from safe and clean environments. After all, we are discussing local plants rather than “weeds”, especially in the context of the global trend on reconnecting to local roots and using the available resources in a responsible manner.

At the same time, if one of your hobbies is gardening, we encourage crop rotation. First, for soil aeration, and then to avoid plants becoming native. The exception here are the acclimatized plants. In Romania there are currently a number of plants that are bound to become native and thus, invasive. This should not be seen as a threat and the predictions don’t view it as a bad thing. Some examples in this regard are sunflowers, hazelnuts, and tomatoes. They do benefit from a nurturing environment and are able to develop in a rather free manner. And this is a good thing. After all, we talk not only of sustainability, but also of adaptability of species. We, as humans, have the ability to change in different contexts, and plants are not necessarily an exception. 

With this text, we are looking to encourage you to use local resources whenever possible, to admire the resilience of these plants and also to encourage you to try them out should the opportunity arise.

Of the native plants we use in preparing the Nutriento dishes, we present you blueberries, which are a fantastic superfood. Blueberries carry numerous benefits, as they are rich in antioxidants that play a role in strengthening the immune system through the vitamins they contain. 

And we must also mention nuts.They are an ingredient we use, and of the reasons we chose to use nuts, the intake of vitamins and nutritional benefits impact the organism immediately. Plus they help brain functionalities. 

We strongly encourage you to explore and continue to learn alongside us about these plants and how to care for them properly.

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