ESCANABA, Mich. (WZMQ) – On Thursday, two organizations teamed up to promote a healthier local ecosystem.
The Central Upper Peninsula Chapter of Wild Ones planted native seeds at the Bay College greenhouse. Each year, a portion of the plants are sold at Bay’s native plant sale in the spring. The rest—approximately 10,000 plants—are distributed to local community gardens, Boy Scout and school projects, and efforts like habitat restoration at the Hiawatha National Forest.
Native seeds planted include varieties of sunflowers, cup plants, and even flowers that are resistant to deer.
“These plants fit in with the environment,” said Wild Ones Central U.P. Chapter President Laurie Johnson. “They support the insects especially, hummingbirds, and other pollinators that really keep our ecosystem running as it should.”
The Central U.P. Wild Ones Chapter hosts events throughout the year for gardeners and wildlife enthusiasts. Visit the group’s Facebook page for more information.