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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Drive-by botany: Poison hemlock and perennial pea
Published on July 6, 2021
Profiles of common Michigan roadside flora in late June 2021. -
Drive-by botany: Golden Alexanders and Arrowwood viburnum
Published on June 14, 2021
Profiles of common Michigan roadside flora in early June 2021. -
Is your water garden having a RIPPLE effect on Michigan's waterways?
Published on May 14, 2021
While water gardens add beauty to backyards, it is important to be aware of the risks associated with aquatic invasive species and to prevent escape. -
Be a smart gardener and protect lakes, streams and wetlands
Published on January 22, 2021
Check out our new Smart Gardening for Shorelands tip sheets to learn how you can landscape with water quality in mind. -
MSU Extension’s partnership with NEMIGLSI empowers youth, strengthens communities in northeast Michigan
Published on November 16, 2020
Working together, partners help Extension in quest to fulfill its mission.
