While most garden plants evolve because of selection, some plants can choose another way - it's so-called plant reversion.
This thing has both pros and cons that gardeners should know about.
Let's start with the benefits.
Sometimes, when a plant reverts to its simpler, older form, it becomes hardier and better at surviving in the local environment.
This can be helpful because the plant is more likely to grow well.
Reverted plants might be more resistant to pests, diseases, or harsh weather conditions. This means they can endure challenges more effectively.
Now, let's talk about the disadvantages.
The most significant drawback is that when a plant reverts, it loses the attractive or unique features that gardeners initially liked.
This can be disappointing, especially if you've put effort into cultivating a particular look.
Reversion can affect the overall beauty of your garden. The loss of vibrant colors or interesting patterns may make your garden less visually appealing.
If some plants in your garden revert and others don't, it can create an inconsistent or messy look. Your garden may appear unorganized.
Plant reversion is often unpredictable, and you can't control when or if it will happen. This makes it challenging for gardeners to maintain a specific look.
In summary, the main benefit of plant reversion is that it can make plants more resilient and better adapted to their surroundings.
However, the significant drawback is the loss of the beautiful or unique traits that gardeners want to preserve.
It's essential for gardeners to balance these pros and cons when dealing with plant reversion.