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: Frost aster and evening primrose
Published on September 27, 2021
Profiles of common Michigan roadside flora in mid-September 2021. -
Maintaining a grasses and sedges garden
Published on September 13, 2021
Keeping your turf alternative garden alive for the next season. -
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.
