Native plants are good for our region, and they’re beautiful, too. Three great things to keep in mind when planting your garden this spring are:

-Plant native. Native plants attract local wildlife and promote, and help restore, the natural biodiversity of the Great Lakes region.

-Know what you are planting. Non-native invasive plants change soil composition, spread wildly and are costly to remove.

-Fertilizers and pesticides are expensive, and they can harm your pets and native wildlife. Consider organic compost to keep soil rich.  
 
To find good native options for your garden, visit Shedd’s Great Lakes native planting page.
 
Posted by Christine, horticulture