Smart Plants

See our Smart tree tip sheets - a series of tip sheets for smart urban and community tree selection.

Smart Gardening: Identifying the oaks of Michigan

Published on August 9, 2021
The following guide will help you distinguish between the 10 most common species of oaks in Michigan.
Smart Gardening for Shorelands: Smart Waterfront Plants to Enhance Your Shoreline

Published on November 24, 2020
Plants that grow in, along, and just outside water play an important role in protecting water quality and providing habitat for many water loving critters.
Smart Gardening: Prevent the spread of aquatic invasive species

Published on January 16, 2020
Smart Gardening tip sheet on how to prevent the spread of aquatic invasive species
Smart Gardening to prevent oak wilt

Published on August 9, 2019
Smart Gardening tip sheet on how to recognize, prevent and control oak wilt.
Understanding and managing invasive plant species

Published on February 1, 2018
Smart gardeners can reduce the impacts of invasive plants by following these tips.
Smart gardening to deter deer

Published on January 6, 2017
Stop deer damage in your garden or landscape with smart gardening techniques.
Water-smart landscapes by design

Published on May 12, 2016
Planning a water-smart garden begins with understanding your site.
Drought-tolerant plants save water, money and time

Published on May 11, 2016
Tip sheet on drought-tolerant plants.
Smart Gardening: Trees and shrubs suitable for Michigan landscapes

Published on May 11, 2016
Beautiful landscapes begin with a strong foundation of woody trees and shrubs.
Smart lakefront plants

Published on May 10, 2016
What lakefront property owner wouldn’t appreciate the pristine, relaxing environment found right at the water’s edge?