Wild Ones! Native Plants Meet & Greet

The Wild Ones seedling chapter of the Newaygo Region will host an event on Saturday, May 18. It will take place from 11am – 1pm at Brooks Township Hall, 490 Quarterline St, Newaygo. Wild Ones Native Plants & Natural Landscapes is a national organization that promotes environmentally sound landscaping practices to preserve biodiversity.

“A local Wild Ones Chapter will bring native plant enthusiasts and the curious together from around West Michigan for resources, education and camaraderie,” states Sally Wagoner, Board Chair of the Newaygo County Environmental Coalition (NCEC).
The event will include

• A native plant sale, with over 100 plants from Big Bluestem Farm in Bitely. This native plant nursery grows local genotype native plants, which means they are ones that developed in this region over millennia and are therefore best suited to grow here.
• A “free native plant exchange”, where those who have plants that need thinning from their gardens will be connected with those who need more plants.
• Sharing the successes and challenges of winter native plant seed sowing. Those who created milk jug or container “greenhouses” for their winter seed sowing are encouraged to bring them in to share. Photos can also be shared by emailing them to: [email protected].
• The unveiling of a new “Native Plant Ambassador” program spearheaded by Big Bluestem Farm.

 “We will also have a Wild Ones naming contest for our local seedling chapter”, added Sally. “So come with a creative name! We will vote on it – and the winner will get a free plant!”
The Newaygo County Environmental Coalition is fostering the creation of the new local Wild Ones chapter, which will eventually be its own independent nonprofit associated with the national Wild Ones organization. 
The event is free and open to the public. Registration is encouraged but not required. Event information and tickets can be found on the NCEC Facebook page: @NCEC2, or scan the QR Code. Visit www.nc-ec.org for more events.

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