Encourage pollinators and other beneficial insects by planting native plants
Most plants need pollination to reproduce and grow fruit. Without pollinators, we would have little to no fruit, fewer vegetables and many plant species would not survive. Insect predators and parasites, known as natural enemies, help control pest populations in crops and gardens. This biological control and pollination are ecosystem services from native plants. Native plants are pre-adapted to local conditions and naturally support native bees and other beneficial species. Michigan State University entomologists have been testing Michigan native and other plants for these purposes and share their results with you through the recommendations at this website. Find out how to select and grow native plants on your farm, garden or community setting by following the links in our navigation.
Watch the following video on our research behind this website as presented to farmers for North Central SARE.
Native Plants News
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Diversity in when milkweeds emerge supports monarch butterflies
Published on June 21, 2019
The timing of milkweed emergence determines egg-laying opportunities for monarchs
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How pollinators can help farmers and renewable energy score
Published on June 18, 2019
A new state policy will allow installation of solar arrays on preserved farmland if pollinator protection practices developed in a scorecard by Michigan State University entomologists are followed.
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Become a Michigan Master Naturalist
Published on April 1, 2019
Bringing nature home is the motto for Michigan Master Naturalists as they learn about conservation. Master Naturalists do this through gaining understanding of the interconnectedness of native plants and animals and human activity.
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Could you please tell me what native plants I can plant on the drain field?
Published on September 7, 2018
Landscaping over your Septic system whether a formal garden or informal one can be tricky. You want to have a beautiful yard but not at the expense of damaging your onsite waste water system.
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Learn All About Southwest Michigan’s Plants in a Field Botany Course
Published on July 23, 2018
The course is open to plant enthusiasts of all levels, from hobbyist gardeners to professional plant biologists.
