The Dallas County Master Gardener Association (DCMGA) has published guidance on its website encouraging residents to incorporate keystone species into their landscaping plans. These native plants are identified as critical for sustaining local ecosystems by providing food and habitat for caterpillars and native bees.
According to the DCMGA, research conducted by Dr. Doug Tammany indicates that a small fraction of native plants supports the majority of local insect populations. Specifically, only 14 percent of native plant species are responsible for supporting 90 percent of butterfly and moth species.
This relationship forms the foundation of local food webs, as 96 percent of terrestrial songbirds depend on caterpillars to feed their young. Additionally, many native bees are pollen specialists that rely on specific native plant genera for survival.
To help local species, the DCMGA suggests anchoring a landscape with keystone trees such as oaks, plums, or willows. Gardeners are also advised to add keystone perennials, including goldenrods, asters, and native sunflowers. For those looking to support monarch butterflies, the association recommends including milkweeds in the planting plan.
Further recommendations include maintaining soft landing zones beneath trees. By allowing leaf litter and shrubs to remain, gardeners can provide areas where caterpillars can pupate. The DCMGA emphasizes the importance of using regionally appropriate species for North Texas gardens.