Rooted in Love, Growing with Purpose

Monarch on Swamp Milkweed

Marsh Marigold

Cone Flower

Monarch on Butterfly Weed

In Michigan, spring is more than just a change in weather—it’s a reawakening of the natural world. As wildflowers push through the soil and native birds return to nest, it’s the perfect time to reflect on the relationship between our gardens and the land around us. At Blue Heron Headwaters Conservancy (BHHC), we believe that planting native species isn’t just a gardening choice—it’s an act of love, stewardship, and purpose.

Why Native Plants Matter

Michigan’s native plants evolved over thousands of years in harmony with the region's climate, soils, and wildlife. These plants play a critical role in supporting local ecosystems:

• Wildlife Support: Native plants provide the exact food and shelter that Michigan’s birds, pollinators, amphibians, and mammals rely on. For example, milkweed is the sole host plant for monarch butterfly caterpillars, and goldenrod supports over 100 species of butterflies and moths.

• Soil and Water Conservation: With deep root systems, many native plants improve soil health, reduce erosion, and help filter and absorb storm water.

• Low Maintenance: Once established, native plants require less watering, fertilizer, and pest control, making them an eco-friendly and cost-effective choice for gardeners.

The Role of the Grower

In today’s rapidly changing environment, every grower has a powerful role to play. Choosing to plant natives is a conscious decision to support your local landscape—to be a caretaker of the land rather than just a user of it. Whether you have a sprawling backyard or a small porch planter, your garden becomes a part of the larger habitat network, connecting fragmented ecosystems and helping rebuild biodiversity right at home.

The Problem with Invasives

On the flip side, non-native and invasive species—like garlic mustard, Japanese knotweed, and autumn olive—disrupt this balance. Invasive plants outcompete native flora, degrade habitats, and can alter soil chemistry. They crowd out the very species that Michigan wildlife depends on, and they can be incredibly difficult and costly to manage once established.

BHHC's Commitment

As a land conservancy, BHHC works year-round to protect, restore, and steward the natural lands and waters of our region. But we can’t do it alone. Our mission thrives on a community of like-minded individuals who care deeply about conservation. Whether you're planting a native pollinator garden, volunteering at a preserve, or simply spreading the word, you are a vital part of this work.

Jim at the Butterfly preserve

Kyle our stewardship lead, planting on a preserve

Planting trees

Stewardship with student volunteers

Planting natives on preserves

Volunteering on the preserve

Volunteers planting natives

Creating a native garden at our office

Stewardship volunteers doing good work

Students making seed balls

native planting at a preserve

Native garden at our Clarkston Office

Ready to Grow with Purpose?

We invite you to take the next step in your native gardening journey at our Native Roots Plant Sale & Community Market! Not only will you find a wide variety of Michigan native plants ready to bring biodiversity to your yard, but you’ll also have access to knowledgeable plant experts who can help you choose the right species for your space.

🌿 Saturday, May 31 | 10AM–3PM

📍 7121 Dixie Hwy, Clarkston

Explore our plant list and event details here: https://BHHC.regfox.com/spring-native-plant-sale-community-market-2025

Grow something that gives back. Support your land, your wildlife, and your community—plant native, and grow with purpose.

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