The Clare Conservation District runs an annual native plant sale every spring. It is the easiest and most affordable way to get Michigan-native trees, shrubs, and wildflowers for your property. Whether you want to restore a meadow, stabilize a shoreline, or attract pollinators, this is where to start.
How to Order
- Watch for the Conservation District catalog, usually available in late winter. You can pick one up at their office at 545 N. McEwan St. in Harrison or request one by calling (989) 539-6401.
- Review the catalog for available species. They typically carry conifers, hardwood seedlings, native wildflower plugs, seed mixes, and shrubs suited to northern Michigan.
- Fill out the order form and return it with payment before the deadline (orders usually close in early April).
- Pick up your plants at the scheduled dates:
- Trees and shrubs: May 7-9
- Wildflowers and plugs: May 21-23
- Plant according to the included care instructions. The District staff are happy to answer questions about spacing and site prep.
Tool Rental for Invasive Species
The Conservation District rents tools to help you manage invasive species on your property. Equipment like brush cutters and herbicide applicators are available at $12-25 per day. Call (989) 539-6401 to check availability and reserve.
Tips for Success
- Match plants to your site. Sun, shade, wet, dry — native species have preferences. Ask Mike Dittenber for free advice on what grows best where you are.
- Start small. A 10x10 ft native planting is a great first project.
- Remove invasives first. Planting natives into a patch of autumn olive or garlic mustard sets them up to fail. Clear the area before you plant.
- Be patient. Most native plantings take 2-3 growing seasons to establish. The first year they sleep, the second year they creep, the third year they leap.