Last summer, you may have noticed the native Michigan plant test gardens around the university (pictured below). What you may not know, is that this was a collaborative effort between the Detroit Biodiversity Network, and WSU Facilities Planning and Management. These gardens were designed to determine the feasibility of using native Michigan plants in future campus plantings. The varieties of the plants being grown are all native to Michigan's ecosystems. The test gardens included individual plant signs along with key wildlife benefits. The benefits of these plant varieties are their drought tolerance, low maintenance, overall hardiness, ease of starting from seed, and attractiveness to both people and the wildlife. Facilities Planning and Management, the Office of Sustainability, and the Grounds Department are looking forward to continuing this collaborative effort to beautify the campus again this summer. Be sure to keep an eye out for these unique gardens around campus! 

Want to learn more or get involved? Contact the Detroit Biodiversity network.