Bluebird Trail: Importance of Native Plants

Native plants are essential

Plants that are native to your area are adapted to survive the local climate, soil type, and amount of rainfall. Native flowers and grasses, such as those growing in the reconstructed prairie in front of you, require less maintenance than non-native plants once they have been established.

Native plants are also part of the natural legacy of your area, and local wildlife and plants have evolved to depend on each other for seed dispersal, pollination, food, and cover.

What should I plant?

Plants are used by birds for both food and cover. Do a little research about the birds you want to attract to find out what native plants they enjoy.

Narrow that list down by determining which plants will thrive in the conditions of your yard. Books, the internet, and garden stores are just a few resources that can help you decide what to plant.

Some plants native to Southwest Michigan

Provide seeds and nectar

Purple Coneflower (Echinacea purpurea)
Cardinal Flower (Lobelia cardinalis)
Bee Balm (Monarda fistulosa)
Butterfly Weed (Asclepias tuberosa)
Serviceberry (Amelanchier arborea)
Flowering Dogwood (Cornus florida)
Highbush Cranberry (Viburnum
opulus var. americana)

Vine that provides fruit

Virginia Creeper (Parthenocissus
quinquefolia)

Provide nuts and attract insects

Bur Oak (Quercus macrocarpa)
Shagbark Hickory (Carya ovata)
American Beech (Fagus grandifolia)
Black Walnut (Juglans nigra)