Native Seed Mixes as Smart Investments in a Changing Climate

Imagine investing all your money in a single stock. If it fails, you lose everything. Restoration works the same way. Planting just one or two seed species leaves a project vulnerable to drought, floods, or shifting seasons. But a diverse portfolio of native seeds spreads risk and secures long-term gains for people, wildlife, and the land.

At the University of Minnesota’s Cedar Creek Ecosystem Science Reserve—our partner and home to the world’s longest biodiversity experiment—research shows that landscapes with more plant species are more productive, store more carbon, and recover better from droughts. Diversity doesn’t just help plants; it strengthens the whole system, from soil microbes to pollinators to wildlife.

At Savannas Forever, our restoration strategy is grounded in this principle. By investing in a balanced mix of native grasses, legumes, and forbs, we build climate-resilient rangelands that sustain soils, wildlife, and communities well into the future. Every species brings something to the table: grasses anchor soil, legumes enrich fertility, and wildflowers support pollinators across the seasons. Together, they create ecosystems that are stronger, more resilient, and self-sustaining—much like a balanced investment portfolio weathers market shocks.

When you support restoration built on diverse native seeds, you’re not just helping plants grow. You’re investing in climate resilience, food security, and healthier communities. Diversity is nature’s insurance policy—and with your support, it’s also our smartest path forward.