Native Landscaping
By incorporating native plants and rain gardens into your landscaping, you can capture runoff, filter out pollutants, and create a thriving ecosystem right in your own backyard!
We can help you design, select, and incorporate native plants into your home, rain garden, or lakeshore landscaping.
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Your Landscaping!
Why go native?
Deep Root Systems
While standard turfgrass has roots that only grow a few inches deep, native plants have dense, deep root systems that can reach up to 16 feet into the ground. These deep roots act as an anchor, holding soil in place to prevent erosion and creating channels for water to soak into the earth.
Low Maintenance & Cost-Effective
Because they are adapted to our environment, native plants are incredibly resilient. Once established, they can withstand both droughts and heavy rains without the need for excessive watering, synthetic fertilizers, or pesticides.
Proven Process, Flexible Execution
Native plants provide food and habitat for local and migratory wildlife. Attract pollinators, birds, and more with year-round blooms, seeds, and fruits!
Rain Gardens in Action
Reduce flooding and keep excess stormwater and nutrients out of our lakes, streams, and storm drains using native plants.
Find the Right Spot
Place your rain garden at least 10 to 15 feet away from your home's foundation and downhill from your downspouts.
Call Before You Dig
Always contact MISS DIG (just dial 811) before you start excavating to locate any underground utilities.
(Tip: calling before you dig is easy, keeps you safe, and is legally required in Michigan.)
Choose the Right Plants
Put water-loving plants in the deepest center part of the garden, and dry-loving plants around the elevated edges or berms. Great native choices include Swamp Milkweed, Purple Coneflower, Black-Eyed Susan, and Wild Bergamot.
Enjoy the Benefits!
Less mowing, reduced water pooling and soggy spots in your yard, colorful blooms all season long, and a front-row seat to visiting songbirds, hummingbirds, and butterflies.
Smart Gardening w/ MSU Extension
