Benzie Conservation District

Spring Native Seedling Sale Returns for 2024

2/1/2024

As winter settles over Michigan, Benzie County’s natural splendor becomes more and more apparent. Our outdoor spaces are special because of the pristine, native species thriving here year-round, both in the wilderness and in the backyards of Benzie residents. You can help support these species, and local ecosystems, by participating in the native spring seedling sale as a volunteer or through a purchase of tree seedlings for your own land.

The sale is an opportunity to both connect with nature and leave a positive impact on it. Each of the dozens of tree and shrub species featured in our catalog is a Michigan native species, meaning they are well-suited for Benzie’s diverse land types and support local wildlife. Songbirds will find home in white flowering dogwood, and pollinators will be entranced by aromatic blossoms of the black cherry, which is new to the catalog this year. Past favorites are returning, like white spruce, a popular windbreak and Christmas tree. We also carry essential products to protect against unwanted deer grazing.

All products (seedlings, grasses, wildflower seeds, and planting supplies) will be available for purchase from February 1st through March 28th, with product pickup on April 19th and 20th at the Beulah Village Park Pavilion. Orders can be placed online, or by delivering your order form to us at 280 S. Benzie Blvd, PO Box 408, Beulah, MI 49617. You can reach us with any questions by calling 231-882-4391 or by emailing [email protected].

Special thanks to the Heartwood tier sponsors of this sale: Honor Bank, Crystal Lake Watershed Association, Cherryland Electric Cooperative, Platte Lake Improvement Association, and Stefanski Dental.

Fall Native Seedling Sale is Happening Now!

8/18/2023

Another planting season is around the corner! This month, you can get started on your next planting project with our biannual Native Seedling Sale.

Our fall catalog is lush with native trees and grasses selected carefully for our region. Between a variety of seedlings, grasses, and wildflowers, the chosen plants reflect Benzie County’s natural beauty while supporting the needs of our community. Wildlife savor the food and resting spots provided by native plants, which also create windbreaks and limit erosion with their root structures. This year’s sale features returning favorites like white spruce, along with new products, such as the Prairie Mix blend of grasses and wildflowers.

The 2023 Fall Native Seedling Sale begins August 17th and ends September 21st, with product pickup in early October. These dates are strategically timed for best planting opportunities. In autumn, young trees don’t get scorched by the summer heat, and native grass seeds germinate well in cool soils.

Seedling sale orders can be placed in person, by mail, or online starting on August 17th. Items will be reserved for pickup on October 6th at our downtown Beulah office. In the meantime, we’re happy to help you select species for your site and provide free planting guides. Visit us at 280 S. Benzie Blvd in Beulah, mail to PO Box 408, or contact 231-882-4391 or [email protected]. Find the latest sale updates in our e-news, seedling sale page, and social media.

Whether you’re planning a long-term conservation project, excited for an opportunity to garden, or want to leave a lasting mark for generations to come, native species are a perfect match for your goals.

Happy planting!