Purple Prairie Blazing Star flowers with tall spikes in a garden, with green leaves and a background of brick building and windows.

Why native plants?

Gardening with native plants is a powerful way to support local ecosystems. Native plants have evolved alongside native wildlife, providing essential food and shelter for pollinators, birds, and beneficial insects. By choosing species adapted to our area’s climate and soil, you help preserve biodiversity and create habitat corridors that allow wildlife to thrive even in urban or suburban settings.

Native plants are good for you, too! They require fewer resources to maintain. Unlike non-native or ornamental species, they are naturally adapted to local rainfall patterns, temperature fluctuations, and soil conditions (hello sandy Michigan soil). This means they often need less watering and no chemical fertilizers or pesticides—making them a low-maintenance and eco-friendly choice.

Beyond these perks, native plants create beautiful, resilient landscapes. Their deep root systems help prevent erosion, improve soil health, and filter stormwater, reducing runoff and pollution.