Native Seedlings to Stewardship Project

Service Description

Join NoMi Forest Explorers for a hands-on environmental education project focused on growing and caring for native Michigan plants—and giving them a permanent home in our community! We’ll begin with an indoor seed-starting workshop at MGTCC in early spring, where participants will plant native seeds using grow lights, humidity domes, trays, and a grow tent to simulate early spring conditions. Over the next 6–8 weeks, youth will take part in weekly forest school check-ins to observe growth, care for seedlings, and learn how light, temperature, moisture, and environment impact plant development. Along the way, learners will explore the importance of native species such as Black-eyed Susan, Purple Coneflower, Wild Bergamot, Goldenrod, and Lupine, discovering how these plants support pollinators, wildlife, soil health, and traditional uses. In late spring (May), participants will transplant their established seedlings outdoors on the grounds of MGTCC, working alongside community partners to create a native pollinator and restoration garden that supports biodiversity and community stewardship. 🌿 What to Expect • Indoor seed planting & care • Weekly observation & hands-on learning • Native plant & pollinator education • Outdoor transplanting & stewardship project This project is made possible through a Michigan Alliance for Environmental and Outdoor Education (MAEOE) grant, which funded the growing equipment, seeds, and supplies. 📅 Dates: February - May 📍 Location: MGTCC + outdoor grounds 👧🧒 Ages: Family-friendly / youth-focused Come grow with us—one seed at a time!