Chapters in Michigan

We will go on a walk to the bog at the Robert Brown Nature Sanctuary. It features pink ladies slippers, pitcher plants, and other boggy botanicals.

As Pollinator Week wraps us join us for a viewing of The Extraordinary Caterpillar.

Not only do caterpillars turn into beautiful butterflies and moths, caterpillars are the driving force of the food web. They convert plants into protein rich food that supports wildlife, particularly nesting birds. 

This film takes a beautiful close up look at these important creatures.

Join us for an inspiring afternoon as you explore a diverse array of native plant gardens, created with help from the Muskegon Conservation District! As you stroll through gardens in both sun and shade, you will see sites at different stages of growth and maybe get a few ideas for your own garden or yard. This is a perfect event to ask questions, snap photos, and see firsthand how native plants can make a difference in urban landscapes.

Drop in anytime during the Open House between 1:00 and 4:00 PM. Street parking is limited, but additional parking is available one block away at a nearby church.

Everyone is welcome! Please register through the Muskegon Conservation District to receive directions.

Members can look forward to Member-to-Member Garden Yard Tours throughout the growing season!

This day's event will feature two Legendary Yards in Livonia  and is open to all Chapter Members and also non-members.  Non-members and anyone wishing to Car Pool are asked to Register using the button below. 

The address of each yard will be communicated to both members and registered non-members approximately 48 hours before the event.

If you are bringing children, please ensure they respect the gardens and their inhabitants. 

Yard One:  Derek's Yard - 48154 (1:00pm)

What began as a search for better vegetable harvests led to a passion for native plants, pollinator conservation, and community engagement. Tour a collection of evolving gardens created through experimentation, learning, and a commitment to sharing native plants and gardening knowledge with others.

Accessibility: Gardens are viewable from paved surfaces.

Read More About Derek's Yard

Yard Two:  Patrick's Yard -48154 (2:00pm)

What happens when a homeowner replaces every square foot of lawn with native plants? Visit Patrick's grass-free landscape to see a thriving habitat filled with pollinators, learn about his journey from traditional lawn care to native gardening, and discover what inspired him to give up his lawnmower for good.

Accessibility: Gardens are viewable from paved surfaces.

Read More About Patrick's Yard

Member-to-Member (M2M) yard visits (aka Show Me-Tell Me) allow members to share experiences, ideas, and challenges with maintaining native plants in our landscapes. These tours help members & invited guests to learn about different natives and enjoy conversations with other native plant enthusiasts.

Join us on a guided hike through the beautiful Thorne Swift Nature Preserve. Hopefully, the timing will be right to catch the Showy Lady Slipper in bloom. This rare lady slipper is the tallest native northern orchid.