By Summer Roberts, WCCD Community Forester
Thank you everyone who joined us to swap native plants at the Ypsilanti District Library Whittaker Branch on June 12th! This potluck-style event encouraged everyone with an interest in native plants to attend whether or not they brought a plant to "pass". Some of the native plants that showed up included: coreopsis, New England aster, ostrich fern, brown-eyed Susan, yarrow, nodding wild onion, hairy beard-tongue, stiff goldenrod, and many others! Other non-native garden plants, such as hostas, day lilies, and fennel made an appearance as well. If in doubt about the origin of a plant, a great resource is MI Flora run by the U of M Herbarium.
Why does WCCD promote native plants? Native plants evolved in concert with native wildlife; therefore, they provide better food and habitat. Native plants are also adapted to the local climate and important components of native ecosystems. Once established, they generally require little maintenance and their deep, fibrous roots can help with stormwater infiltration and reduce puddling in yards, sidewalks, driveways, and roadways. Curious how to use native plants to reduce flooding on your property and protect water quality? Check out the Master Rain Gardener program run by the Washtenaw County Water Resources Commissioner’s Office.
The swap wrapped up by planting the few remaining “leftovers” along the edges of the rain garden at the Ypsilanti District Library. A big thanks to our partners at the Washtenaw County Water Resources Commission’s Office and Ypsilanti District Library for helping to support and promote the event. We look forward to running another swap next year!
Why does WCCD promote native plants? Native plants evolved in concert with native wildlife; therefore, they provide better food and habitat. Native plants are also adapted to the local climate and important components of native ecosystems. Once established, they generally require little maintenance and their deep, fibrous roots can help with stormwater infiltration and reduce puddling in yards, sidewalks, driveways, and roadways. Curious how to use native plants to reduce flooding on your property and protect water quality? Check out the Master Rain Gardener program run by the Washtenaw County Water Resources Commissioner’s Office.
The swap wrapped up by planting the few remaining “leftovers” along the edges of the rain garden at the Ypsilanti District Library. A big thanks to our partners at the Washtenaw County Water Resources Commission’s Office and Ypsilanti District Library for helping to support and promote the event. We look forward to running another swap next year!
