As spring gives way to summer in Michigan, there’s no better time to dig into gardening! While the idea of starting a new project might feel overwhelming—especially on a budget—creating a Michigan oasis of your own doesn’t have to be. Read on for five practical tips to help you build a thriving garden this summer without breaking the bank.
The Case for Going Native: Why Native Plants Save You Green
Because they’ve evolved to thrive in Michigan’s climate, native plants need less water, fertilizer, and maintenance, saving you money, time, and effort as you start a garden. Plus, investing in native blooms supports local biodiversity, by feeding and sheltering local pollinators like bees, butterflies and birds. In a state where the weather can be sunny with temperatures in the high eighties one day and rainy with a chill breeze the next, investing in native plants is a practical and cost-effective way to step into gardening.
1. Take Advantage of Low-Cost or Free Local Gardening Resources
Before heading to your local plant nursery, explore options for acquiring native blooms for free or at a low cost. Start by checking whether your local library hosts a seed exchange—these programs let community members share and pick up a wide variety of seeds at no cost. Many cities host farmers markets, plant swaps, or offer community gardens for residents. These are great places to learn from botany experts and purchase your preferred plants at lower prices than traditional garden centers. By taking the time to source your plants locally, you can avoid paying price premiums and save money on your garden, all while supporting your community.
2. Ask Friends or Neighbors for Cuttings from their Mature Plants
Consider asking friends or neighbors who have established gardens for cuttings, seeds, or divisions from plants in their garden. Milkweeds, black-eyed Susans and fireweeds are just three examples of seed-producing blooms that are native to Michigan. Asking around is an easy, cost-effective way to grow your garden—and you'll likely pick up helpful tips from seasoned gardeners as you start your journey too.
3. Compare the Cost of Buying Full-Grown Plants vs. Seeds
After deciding which plants best suit your space and style, compare the cost of purchasing full-grown plants versus seed packets when shopping. While full grown plants offer instant appeal, purchasing seed packets and cultivating blooms of your own may be a more budget-friendly way to expand your garden. When making this choice, it is important to consider your timeline and goals for when you would like your garden to be in full bloom. Native plants such as the smooth blue aster and goldenrod won’t be fully mature until early fall, making them ideal seeds to invest in now for autumn beauty.
4. Plant for Pollinators to Help Your Garden Grow
While often characterized by its diverse natural landscapes, Michigan is also notorious for its variety of pollinator species. These powerful creatures include honeybees, monarch and black swallowtail butterflies, moths, ruby-throated hummingbirds and brown bats among others. Wild Bergamot, asters, and purple coneflowers are just a few of the plant species native to Michigan that are most appealing to pollinators. By incorporating these flowers into your garden, you’ll attract pollinators that help your plants reproduce, grow, and thrive all season long.
5. Turn Food Scraps into Fuel through Composting
Taking food scraps and turning them into compost is both an eco and budget-friendly way to turn waste into fertilizer. After selecting the composting bin and method that best suits your gardening goals, take the time to separate your scraps. Generally, you can compost most fruits and vegetables, crushed eggshells and certain paper materials such as teabags. Avoid adding citrus, onions, meat, dairy, and greasy foods, as these can attract pests or slow the decomposition process. Depending on your method of composting, achieving useable fertilizer can take a few weeks to months, so make sure to plan ahead.
Whether you’re a gardening newbie or a seasoned expert looking to make your yard more eco-friendly, native plants are a sustainable and smart way to lower your gardening costs while growing a vibrant, resilient landscape. By making use of local resources, reaching out to others, and thinking seasonally, you can cultivate a flourishing Michigan oasis and take advantage of the beauty of a Michigan summer—without straining your budget. So get outside, grab your trowel, and start planting today—your very own backyard paradise awaits!
