Business Details
39 Years
experience
Native Seed Solutions for Michigan Landscapes
Native Connections has been a trusted provider of native seeds for landscaping, restoration, and conservation since 1987. Founded by Jerry Stewart, an agronomist with a passion for prairie restoration, the company transitioned from Lawnscape Plus, Inc. to focus exclusively on native plant solutions. With over 30 years of experience, we specialize in producing Michigan genotype grasses, sedges, and wildflowers, ensuring ecological integrity through responsible harvesting and local sourcing. Our team, led by Jared Foster since 2018, has expanded production to nearly 100 acres while maintaining strict quality standards through independent seed testing. We prioritize biodiversity by designing seed mixes that reflect natural plant communities and avoid cultivars or exotics.Our commitment to preserving local genotypes ensures seeds are adapted to regional soils and climates, supporting successful restoration projects across Michigan and the Great Lakes region. We collaborate with engineers, designers, and landowners to create tailored solutions, offering over 500 species for custom mixes. All seeds are sold by Pure Live Seed (PLS) percentage, guaranteeing transparency and reliability. Our ethical standards include invasive species control, rare species protection, and sustainable management practices. With a focus on education and community, we provide resources like our Cultural Guide and partner with organizations like the Native Plant Guild to promote native plant conservation.
Services
Seed Mixes
Custom Blends
Individual Species
Pollinator Solutions
Wetland Restoration
Details
- Year established: 1987
Highlights and features
- We offer over 500 Michigan and Great Lakes native species for tailored seed mixes.
- Our seeds are sourced from remnant populations and tested for purity/germination.
- We prioritize local genotype preservation for climate-adapted restoration success.
- We provide expert guidance for projects ranging from residential gardens to large-scale mitigation.
- We maintain ethical standards with invasive species control and rare plant protection.
Associations and certifications
- Native Plant Guild
What people say
Ecological expertise
Reliable seed quality
Tailored solutions
Ethical practices
Regional focus
Services
Seed Mixes
Our standard seed mixes replicate Michigan's natural ecosystems for prairies, woodlands, and wetlands. Each mix balances species diversity with client needs, using locally sourced seeds adapted to regional conditions. Ideal for conservation projects, landscaping, and habitat restoration.
Custom Blends
Custom seed blends are designed using site-specific factors like soil type and climate. We combine over 500 native species to create mixes that ensure biodiversity and long-term ecological stability for unique projects.
Individual Species
We offer individually priced Michigan genotype grasses and wildflowers, including Big Bluestem and Switchgrass. Each species undergoes purity testing to guarantee germination rates for targeted planting needs.
Pollinator Solutions
Pollinator-focused seed mixes feature native forbs and grasses that support bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects. These blends create sustainable habitats while enhancing landscape aesthetics and biodiversity.
Wetland Restoration
Specialized wetland seed mixes include moisture-tolerant species for emergent wetlands and sedge meadows. These blends aid in water filtration, erosion control, and creating habitats for aquatic and terrestrial wildlife.
People
Jerry Stewart
Founder
Agronomist and founder of Native Connections, Jerry Stewart transitioned from Lawnscape Plus, Inc. in 2001 to focus on native plant restoration. He developed the company's ecological approach and managed its growth to 75 acres of native grasses by 2006.
Jared Foster
Owner
Jared Foster joined Native Connections in 2012, bringing expertise in ecological restoration. He acquired the seed division in 2018, expanding production to nearly 100 acres while maintaining strict quality and genotype preservation standards.
Questions
What seed types do you specialize in?
We focus on Michigan-native grasses, sedges, and wildflowers for prairies, wetlands, and woodlands. Our inventory includes over 500 species for standard and custom mixes.
How are your seeds tested for quality?
All seeds undergo independent lab testing for purity and germination rates. We sell by Pure Live Seed (PLS) percentage to ensure accurate seed counts and viability.
Can I order custom seed mixes?
Yes! We create tailored blends using site-specific factors like soil moisture and project goals. Contact us for a quote based on your landscape's unique needs.
Do you ship outside Michigan?
We serve clients across the Great Lakes region, including Indiana, Ohio, Illinois, and Wisconsin. Shipping is available for all seed orders within these areas.
What payment methods do you accept?
We accept cash, checks, EFT/ACH transfers, and credit cards (with a 2.9% surcharge). Gift certificates are also available in $25 increments.
How long does shipping take?
Orders typically ship within 7-10 business days. Contact us directly for urgent requests or pickup arrangements at our Kalamazoo, MI facility.
