What Plant Zone Is Michigan In? 92 Plants to Grow in MI Hardiness Zones

Gardening | January 7, 2024

Woman wonders what plant zone is Michigan in and what kinds of plants grow in Michigan while looking at a USDA hardiness zone map, and wondering what types of fruits, vegetables, flowers to plant in Michigan and MI gardening tips.

What plant zone is Michigan in? What plants can you grow in the Great Lake State?

It doesn’t matter if you’re a novice gardener or a seasoned professional living in a new area. It’s still helpful to know which plants are most likely to thrive in Michigan before you start buying and sowing seeds.

This guide features answers to these and other critical questions, including, “How does the agricultural zone map work?” and “What are shrubs native to Michigan?”

So, what plant zone is Michigan in? Check out the map:

Introduction to the USDA Zones: The Hardiness Zone Map

The USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map breaks down all the different plant zones in the USA.¹ It sets the standard for gardeners and growers throughout the country, helping them to figure out which plants are most likely to grow and thrive in their area.

The zones for gardening are determined based on the average minimum winter temperature in a particular location. These areas are divided into 10-degree Fahrenheit zones, and these zones are further divided into 5-degree Fahrenheit half-zones.

How To Use the Planting Zone Map

To use the planting zone map and figure out the types of trees, shrubs, flowers, and crops you can grow, follow these steps:

Visit USDA’s website to view the map¹
Enter your zip code in the search bar at the top of the page
Click the magnifying glass icon to start your search

After entering your zip code and clicking the search button, your specific growing zone will pop up.

Graphics of Michigan Hardiness Zone map showing the color-coded map of Michigan based on prevailing temperature levels.

For example, if you live in Kenockee, Michigan, and have the zip code 48006, the map will show that you live in Zone 6A. Conversely, if you live in Montcalm County, Michigan, and have the zip code 48852, you live in Zone 5B.

Why Do Hardiness Zones Matter?

Hardiness zones matter because they help you set realistic expectations for your garden. You can’t control the weather, after all, but knowing the specific hardiness zone in which you live can help you choose plants that are most likely to be able to tolerate your location.

The map also allows you to compare the climate in your area with the ideal climate for a specific plant. This comparison, in turn, can help you identify potential sensitivities and make adjustments for them.

For example, say you want to plant a particular flower that does better in warmer climates with a higher hardiness zone number. In that case, you’ll know to take extra care and cover it when temperatures start to drop.

What Zone Is Michigan For Planting?

If you are wondering, What plant zone is Michigan in? Michigan contains multiple plant zones.

Specifically, its counties and cities fall into the following hardiness zones:

Zone 4A
Zone 4B
Zone 5A
Zone 5B
Zone 6A
Zone 6B

Zones 4A and 4B include the northern portion of the state and is the coldest, and Zones 5A and 5B encompass the middle portion. Zones 6A and 6B stretch along the eastern and western sides of the state, which are bordered by water.

Each of these zones is also divided into A and B groups (4A, 4B, 5A, 5B, 6A, and 6B).

About the Planting Zones Michigan Is Home To

The table below highlights some of the most important characteristics of each of Michigan’s planting zones:

Planting Zone	Minimum Average Temperature
Zone 4A	-25 to -30 degrees Fahrenheit
Zone 4B	-20 to -25 degrees Fahrenheit
Zone 5A	-15 to 20 degrees Fahrenheit
Zone 5B	-10 to -15 degrees Fahrenheit
Zone 6A	-10 to -5 degrees Fahrenheit
Zone 6B	-5 to 0 degrees Fahrenheit

Because Michigan is known for its harsh winters (with an average of nearly 45 inches of snow from January to March), it’s not surprising that what plant zone is Michigan in fall relatively low on the USDA hardiness scale. For comparison, Hawaii and Puerto Rico are in Zones 12 and 13.

Michigan Native Plants: Which Plants Thrive in the Michigan Growing Zone?

Several different plants grow in and are native to Michigan, despite the state’s zones for gardening being relatively cold. Some of the most well-known native plants in Michigan, and the locations where they grow, are listed below.

Zone 5B/6A/6B

Zones 5B, 6A, and 6B fall into an area also known as the Southern Lower Peninsula of Michigan.

These zones are home to many different native wildflowers, ferns, trees, shrubs, and vines. The table below outlines some of the most well-known ones, with insights into their colors and the amount of sun or shade they need:

Southern Lower Peninsula of Michigan graphic showing the map of Michigan with Wild Columbine, Swamp Milkweed, Harebell, Lanceleaf Coreopsis, Fireweed, Spotted Joe-Pye Weed, and Common Boneset images.

Wildflowers in the Southern Lower Peninsula
Scientific Name	Common Name	Color	Size	Full Sun	Partial Sun	Shade
1. Aquilegia canadensis	Wild Columbine	Red/Yellow	1-3 feet	Yes	Yes	Yes
2. Asclepias incarnata	Swamp Milkweed	Pink	3-4 feet	Yes	Yes	No
3. Campanula rotundifolia	Harebell	Blue	1-2 feet	Yes	No	No
4. Chamerion angustifolium	Fireweed	Purple	3-4 feet	Yes	Yes	No
5. Coreopsis lanceolata	Sand Coreopsis Lanceleaf Coreopsis	Yellow	1-2 feet	Yes	No	No
6. Eupatoriadelphus maculatus	Spotted Joe-Pye Weed	Pink	4-5 feet	Yes	Yes	No
7. Eupatorium perfoliatum	Common Boneset	White	3-5 feet	Yes	Yes	No

Southern Lower Peninsula of Michigan graphic showing the map of Michigan with Big-leaved Aster, Grass-leaved Goldenrod, False Sunflower, Wild Blue Flag, Rough Blazing Star, False Spikenard, Starry False Solomon's seal, and Wild Bergamot images.

Scientific Name	Common Name	Color	Size	Full Sun	Partial Sun	Shade
8. Eurybia macrophylla²⁵	Big-leaved Aster	Violet	1-3 feet	No	Yes	Yes
9. Euthamia graminifolia	Grass-leaved Goldenrod Flat-top Goldenrod	Yellow	3-4 feet	Yes	Yes	No
10. Heliopsis helianthoides	False Sunflower	Yellow	4-6 feet	Yes	Yes	No
11. Iris versicolor	Wild Blue Flag	Blue	2-3 feet	Yes	Yes	No
12. Liatris aspera	Rough Blazing Star	Pink	3-4 feet	Yes	No	No
13. Maianthemum racemosum	False Spikenard False Solomon’s Seal	White	1-2 feet	No	Yes	Yes
14. Maianthemum stellatum	Starry False Solomon’s Seal	White	1-2 feet	Yes	Yes	No
15. Monarda fistulosa	Wild Bergamot	Lavender	2-4 feet	Yes	No	No

Southern Lower Peninsula of Michigan graphic showing the map of Michigan with Black-eyed Susan, Mad-dog Skullcap, Smooth Aster, Swamp Aster, Purple Meadow-rue, Early Meadow-rue, and Blue Vervain images.

Scientific Name	Common Name	Color	Size	Full Sun	Partial Sun	Shade
16. Rudbeckia hirta	Black-eyed Susan	Yellow	1-3 feet	Yes	Yes	No
17. Scutellaria lateriflora²⁶	Mad-dog Skullcap	Blue	2-3 feet	Yes	Yes	No
18. Symphyotrichum laeve	Smooth Aster	Lavender	2-4 feet	Yes	No	No
19. Symphyotrichum puniceum²⁷	Swamp Aster	Pale Blue	3-5 feet	Yes	Yes	No
20. Thalictrum dasycarpum	Purple Meadow-rue	White	3-7 feet	Yes	Yes	No
21. Thalictrum dioicum	Early Meadow-rue	White	2-3 feet	No	Yes	Yes
22. Verbena hastata	Blue Vervain	Blue	3-5 feet	Yes	Yes	No

Southern Lower Peninsula of Michigan graphic showing the map of Michigan with Maidenhair Fern, Ostrich Fern, and Interrupted Fern images.

Ferns in the Southern Lower Peninsula
Scientific Name	Common Name	Height	Full Sun	Partial Sun	Shade
23. Adiantum pedatum	Maidenhair Fern	1 foot	No	Yes	Yes
24. Matteuccia struthiopteris²⁸	Ostrich Fern	3-4 feet	Yes	Yes	Yes
25. Osmunda claytoniana	Interrupted Fern	3-4 feet	Yes	Yes	Yes

Southern Lower Peninsula of Michigan graphic showing the map of Michigan with Red Maple, Sugar Maple, Serviceberry, Paper Birch, Virgin's Bower, Bunchberry, Red-osier Dogwood, and Ground Juniper images.

Trees, Shrubs, and Vines
Scientific Name	Common Name	Color	Height	Full Sun	Partial Sun	Shade
26. Acer rubrum	Red Maple	Red	50-100 feet	Yes	Yes	No
27. Acer saccharum	Sugar Maple	Yellow	60-100 feet	Yes	Yes	No
28. Amelanchier arboria	Serviceberry, Northern Juneberry	White	12-25 feet	Yes	Yes	No
29. Betula papyrifera	Paper Birch	Brown	30-60 feet	Yes	Yes	No
30. Clematis virginiana	Virgin’s Bower	White	Vine	Yes	Yes	No
31. Cornus canadensis	Bunchberry	White	.5-1 foot	No	No	Yes
32. Cornus sericea	Red-osier Dogwood	White	3-9 feet	Yes	Yes	Yes
33. Juniperus Communis	Ground Juniper	Green	3-5 feet	Yes	Yes	Yes

Southern Lower Peninsula of Michigan graphic showing the map of Michigan with Ninebark, Choke Cherry, Red Oak, Elderberry, Red-Berried Elder, Wild Lowbush Blueberry, and Nannyberry images.

Scientific Name	Common Name	Color	Height	Full Sun	Partial Sun	Shade
34. Physocarpus opulifolius	Ninebark	White	3-9 feet	Yes	Yes	No
35. Prunus virginiana	Choke Cherry	White	10-30 feet	Yes	Yes	No
36. Quercus rubra	Red Oak	Green	65-90 feet	Yes	No	No
37. Sambucus nigra	Elderberry	White	5-12 feet	Yes	Yes	No
38. Sambucus racemosa	Red-Berried Elder	White	5-12 feet	Yes	Yes	No
39. Vaccinium angustifolium	Wild Lowbush Blueberry	White	.5-2 feet	Yes	Yes	Yes
40. Viburnum lentago	Nannyberry	White	15-30 feet	Yes	Yes	No

Zone 5A/5B/6A

Zones 5A, 5B, and 6A fall into an area also known as the Northern Lower Peninsula of Michigan.

Wildflowers
Scientific Name	Common Name	Color	Size	Full Sun	Partial Sun	Shade
41. Achillea millefolium	Yarrow	White	1-3 feet	Yes	Yes	No
42. Actaea pachypoda	White Baneberry	White	1-2 feet	No	Yes	Yes
43. Anemone canadensis	Canada Anemone	White	1-2 feet	Yes	Yes	No
*Aquilegia canadensis	Wild Columbine	Red/Yellow	1-3 feet	Yes	Yes	Yes
44. Aralia racemosa²⁹	Spikenard	White	3-6 feet	Yes	Yes	Yes
45. Asarum canadense	Wild Ginger	Burgundy	.5-1 foot	Yes	No	No
*Asclepias incarnata	Swamp Milkweed	Pink	3-4 feet	Yes	Yes	No
46. Asclepias tuberosa	Butterflyweed	Orange	1-3 feet	Yes	No	No
*Campanula rotundifolia	Harebell	Blue	1-2 feet	Yes	No	No
*Coreopsis lanceolata	Sand Coreopsis Lanceleaf Coreopsis	Yellow	1-2 feet	Yes	No	No

Scientific Name	Common Name	Color	Size	Full Sun	Partial Sun	Shade
47. Desmodium canadense	Showy Tick-trefoil	Pink	3-4 feet	Yes	Yes	No
48. Doellingeria umbellata	Flat-top White Aster	White	2-4 feet	Yes	Yes	No
*Eupatoriadelphus maculatus	Spotted Joe-Pye Weed	Pink	4-5 feet	Yes	Yes	No
*Eupatorium perfoliatum	Common Boneset	White	3-5 feet	Yes	Yes	No
49. Geranium maculatum	Wild Geranium	Pink	1-2 feet	Yes	Yes	Yes
50. Helianthus occidentalis	Western Sunflower	Yellow	2-4 feet	Yes	No	No
*Heliopsis helianthoides	False Sunflower	Yellow	4-6 feet	Yes	Yes	No
*Iris versicolor	Wild Blue Flag	Blue	2-3 feet	Yes	Yes	No
*Liatris aspera	Rough Blazing Star	Pink	3-4 feet	Yes	No	No
51. Lobelia cardinalis	Cardinal Flower	Red	2-4 feet	Yes	Yes	No

Scientific Name	Common Name	Color	Size	Full Sun	Partial Sun	Shade
52. Lobelia siphilitica	Great Blue Lobelia	Blue	1-3 feet	Yes	Yes	No
53. Lupinus perennis	Wild Lupine	Blue	1-2 feet	Yes	Yes	No
*Monarda fistulosa	Wild Bergamot	Lavender	2-4 feet	Yes	No	No
54. Monarda punctata	Horsemint	Yellow	1-3 feet	Yes	No	No
55. Penstemon digitalis	Foxglove Beardtongue	White	3-4 feet	Yes	Yes	No
56. Penstemon hirsutus	Hairy Beardtongue	Pink	1-2 feet	Yes	No	No
57. Potentilla simplex	Common Cinquefoil	Yellow	1 foot	Yes	Yes	Yes
58. Pycnanthemum virginianum³⁰	Mountain Mint	White	1-2 feet	Yes	Yes	No
*Rudbeckia hirta	Black-Eyed Susan	Yellow	1-3 feet	Yes	Yes	No
59. Solidago caesia	Blue-stemmed Goldenrod	Yellow	2-3 feet	Yes	Yes	Yes

Scientific Name	Common Name	Color	Size	Full Sun	Partial Sun	Shade
60. Solidago speciosa	Showy Goldenrod	Yellow	2-5 feet	Yes	No	No
*Symphyotrichum laeve³³	Smooth Aster	Lavender	2-4 feet	Yes	No	No
61. Symphyotrichum novae-angliae	New England Aster	Purple	3-6 feet	Yes	No	No
62. Symphyotrichum oolentangiense³¹	Skyblue Aster	Blue	2-3 feet	Yes	Yes	No
*Symphyotrichum puniceum	Swamp Aster	Pale Blue	3-5 feet	Yes	Yes	No
*Thalictrum dasycarpum	Purple Meadow-rue	White	3-7 feet	Yes	Yes	No
63. Tradescantia ohiensis	Common Spiderwort	Blue	2-3 feet	Yes	Yes	No
*Verbena hastata	Blue Vervain	Blue	3-5 feet	Yes	Yes	No
64. Verbena stricta	Hoary Vervain	Purple-Blue	2-4 feet	Yes	Yes	No
65. Zizia aurea	Golden Alexanders	Yellow	2-3 feet	Yes	Yes	No

Ferns
Scientific Name	Common Name	Height	Full Sun	Partial Sun	Shade
*Adiantum pedatum	Maidenhair Fern	1 foot	No	Yes	Yes
66. Onoclea sensibilis	Sensitive Fern	1-2 feet	Yes	Yes	No

Trees, Shrubs, and Vines
Scientific Name	Common Name	Color	Height	Full Sun	Partial Sun	Shade
*Amelanchier arboria	Serviceberry Northern Juneberry	White	12-25 feet	Yes	Yes	No
67. Betula alleghaniensis	Yellow Birch	Yellow	40-70 feet	Yes	Yes	No
*Betula papyrifera	Paper Birch	Brown	30-60 feet	Yes	Yes	No
68. Cornus amomum	Silky Dogwood	White	3-9 feet	Yes	Yes	Yes
69. Cornus racemosa	Gray Dogwood	White	3-10 feet	Yes	Yes	No
70. Ilex verticillata	Winterberry	White	6-12 feet	Yes	Yes	No

Scientific Name	Common Name	Color	Height	Full Sun	Partial Sun	Shade
*Juniperus communis	Ground Juniper	Green	3-5 feet	Yes	No	No
*Physocarpus opulifolius	Ninebark	White	3-9 feet	Yes	Yes	No
*Prunus virginiana	Chokecherry	White	10-30 feet	Yes	Yes	No
71. Rosa blanda³²	Wild Rose	Pink	4-5 feet	Yes	Yes	No
72. Rosa carolina	Pasture Rosa	Pink	1-3 feet	Yes	Yes	No
*Sambucus racemosa	Red-berried Elder	White	5-12 feet	Yes	Yes	No
*Viburnum lentago	Nannyberry	White	15-30 feet	Yes	Yes	No

Zone 4A/4B/5A

Zones 4A, 4B, and 5A fall into an area also known as the Upper Peninsula of Michigan.

Wildflowers
Scientific Name	Common Name	Color	Size	Full Sun	Partial Sun	Shade
*Aquilegia canadensis	Wild Columbine	Red/Yellow	1-3 feet	Yes	Yes	Yes
*Asclepias incarnata	Swamp Milkweed	Pink	3-4 feet	Yes	Yes	No
*Campanula rotundifolia	Harebell	Blue	1-2 feet	Yes	No	No
*Chamerion angustifolium	Fireweed	Purple	3-4 feet	Yes	Yes	No
*Coreopsis lanceolata	Sand Coreopsis Lanceleaf Coreopsis	Yellow	1-2 feet	Yes	No	No
*Eupatoriadelphus maculatus	Spotted Joe-Pye Weed	Pink	4-5 feet	Yes	Yes	No
*Eupatorium perfoliatum	Common Boneset	White	3-5 feet	Yes	Yes	No
*Eurybia macrophylla	Big-leaved Aster	Violet	1-3 feet	No	Yes	Yes
*Euthamia graminifolia	Grass-leaved Goldenrod	Yellow	3-4 feet	Yes	Yes	No
*Heliopsis helianthoides	False Sunflower	Yellow	4-6 feet	Yes	Yes	No

Scientific Name	Common Name	Color	Size	Full Sun	Partial Sun	Shade
*Iris versicolor	Wild Blue Flag	Blue	2-3 feet	Yes	Yes	No
*Liatris aspera	Rough Blazing Star	Pink	3-4 feet	Yes	No	No
*Maianthemum racemosum	False Spikenard False Solomon’s Seal	White	1-2 feet	No	Yes	Yes
*Maianthemum stellatum	Starry False Solomon’s Seal	White	1-2 feet	Yes	Yes	No
*Monarda fistulosa	Wild Bergamot	Lavender	2-4 feet	Yes	No	No
*Rudbeckia hirta	Black-eyed Susan	Yellow	1-3 feet	Yes	Yes	No
*Scutellaria lateriflora	Mad-dog Skullcap	Blue	2-3 feet	Yes	Yes	No
*Symphyotrichum laeve³³	Smooth Aster	Lavender	2-4 feet	Yes	No	No
*Symphyotrichum puniceum	Swamp Aster	Pale Blue	3-5 feet	Yes	Yes	No
*Thalictrum dasycarpum	Purple Meadow-rue	White	3-7 feet	Yes	Yes	No
*Thalictrum dioicum	Early Meadow-rue	White	2-3 feet	No	Yes	Yes
*Verbena hastata	Blue Vervain	Blue	3-5 feet	Yes	Yes	No

Ferns
Scientific Name	Common Name	Height	Full Sun	Partial Sun	Shade
*Adiantum pedatum	Maidenhair Fern	1 foot	No	Yes	Yes
*Matteuccia struthiopteris	Ostrich Fern	3-4 feet	Yes	Yes	Yes
*Osmunda claytoniana	Interrupted Fern	3-4 feet	Yes	Yes	Yes

Trees, Shrubs, and Vines
Scientific Name	Common Name	Color	Height	Full Sun	Partial Sun	Shade
*Acer rubrum	Red Maple	Red	50-100 feet	Yes	Yes	No
*Acer saccharum	Sugar Maple	Yellow	60-100 feet	Yes	Yes	No
*Amelanchier arboria	Serviceberry Northern Juneberry	White	12-25 feet	Yes	Yes	No
*Betula papyrifera	Paper Birch	Brown	30-60 feet	Yes	Yes	No
*Clematis virginiana	Virgin’s Bower	White	Vine	Yes	Yes	No
*Cornus canadensis	Bunchberry	White	.5-1 foot	No	No	Yes
*Cornus sericea	Red-osier Dogwood	White	3-9 feet	Yes	Yes	Yes

Scientific Name	Common Name	Color	Height	Full Sun	Partial Sun	Shade
*Juniperus communis	Ground Juniper	Green	3-5 feet	Yes	No	No
*Physocarpus opulifolius	Ninebark	White	3-9 feet	Yes	Yes	No
*Prunus virginiana	Chokecherry	White	10-30 feet	Yes	Yes	No
*Quercus rubra	Red Oak	Green	65-90 feet	Yes	No	No
*Sambucus nigra	Elderberry	White	5-12 feet	Yes	Yes	No
*Sambucus racemosa	Red-berried Elder	White	5-12 feet	Yes	Yes	No
*Vaccinium angustifolium	Wild Lowbush Blueberry	White	.5-2 feet	Yes	Yes	Yes
*Viburnum lentago	Nannyberry	White	15-30 feet	Yes	Yes	No

Why Should You Grow Native Plants?

You should grow native plants on your property, whether you prefer trees, shrubs, wildflowers, or ferns, for several reasons, including the following:

No Fertilizers Needed

Native plants can grow perfectly fine without fertilizer. Most native plants have evolved over time to survive and thrive in less-than-ideal soils.

In some cases, adding fertilizer to these plants can actually harm the plants and hinder their growth!

Because native plants don’t require fertilizer, you get to skip one of the most tedious parts of growing and caring for plants. Since they’ve already adapted to your particular hardiness zone, you can trust that they’ll likely be just fine left to their own devices.

Fewer Pesticides Required

Native plants also don’t require as many pesticides as other plants. Because they’ve adapted to your specific region — in this case, Michigan — they’re better equipped to weather potential attacks or irritation from insects and other creatures.

Less Water Needed

You generally don’t have to worry as much about water with native plants as you do with other varieties. That doesn’t mean you can skip watering altogether, of course, but it does mean you don’t have to water them quite as frequently.

Another bonus of native plants is that their deep root systems soak up water and reduce runoff, which prevents flooding as well.

Reduce Air Pollution

All plants, especially trees, are good for the environment, but native plants are particularly effective when it comes to sequestering carbon and removing it from the air. If you want plants that are extra beneficial to the planet, native plants are excellent choices.

Support Wildlife and Pollinators

Finally, native plants are good for pollinators and other local wildlife.

Michigan is home to several different species of bees, including honey bees and bumblebees, which are important pollinators. Monarch butterflies — another crucial pollinator that is critically endangered — are particularly prevalent during the summers as well.

By planting native flowers and plants, you can invite more pollinators and give them the resources they need to survive and thrive.

How To Grow Native Plants in Michigan

It’s not hard to grow native plants in Michigan if you take some time to prepare and evaluate your property first. Here are some specific steps to take if you want to grow native wildflowers, ferns, trees, or anything in between:

Assess Your Property for Existing Native Plants

Start by assessing your property to see if you already have native flowers, ferns, shrubs, or trees growing. If you notice any plants you don’t recognize, use a plant identifier app to find out what it is.

Consider the Amount of Sun Your Property Gets

Michigan is sunny a little over half the time,⁹ but the specific amount of sun your garden gets will vary based on the direction it faces, the number of trees you have planted on the property, etc.

Start by finding out which direction your garden faces. This chart can help:

Direction	Characteristics
South-Facing	Garden is lit by the sun from sunrise to sunset
North-Facing	Garden is shaded most — if not all — of the day
East-Facing	Garden gets lots of sun in the morning but is shaded in the afternoon
West-Facing	Garden is shaded in the morning but gets lots of sun in the afternoon

This table can also help you determine whether your garden is a full-sun, partial-sun, or shaded area:

Sun/Shade Type	Hours of Direct Sunlight
Full-Sun	6+ hours per day
Partial-Sun	4-6 hours per day
Shade	Under 4 hours per day

Consider the number of trees you have on your property and the amount of shade they create. If you have a north-facing garden but lots of tree coverage, that will affect your plants and if they survive.

Once you know what kind of property you’re dealing with regarding sunlight, use the tables from above to identify full-sun, partial-sun, or shade plants that are most likely to grow and be healthy.

Check the Soil Type

Next, evaluate your soil, as soil types can vary significantly throughout Michigan. For example, the western and northern parts of the lower peninsula tend to be sandier, whereas the southern lower peninsula has more clay and loam soil.

Generally speaking, loam soils are best for native plant growth. They feature a good balance of sand, silt, and clay, which helps with water and airflow and allows the roots to penetrate deeply.

Wide shot of a plain showing tilled soil with the cloudy sky in the background.

(Image: Zbynek Burival³⁹)

Michigan State University has a program that will help you identify the type of soil you’re working with.

To participate, you can order a soil test mailer online. Then, collect a soil sample and send it back to the lab for testing.

Check the Soil Drainage

It’s also a good idea to check the soil drainage in the area you want to plant.

To do this, dig a hole that’s about one foot deep and one foot wide. Fill it with water and measure the amount of time it takes to drain completely.

Ideally, the water will drain within 10-30 minutes. If it drains faster than that, the soil might be drought-prone and will be better suited to plants that require dry soil.

Obtain Native Plant Materials

At this point, you’re ready to select the native plants you want to grow on your property and can start shopping for them.

Look for nearby nurseries and sellers if possible. That way, you can support your local economy while also getting the native plants you want.

Prepare Your Plant Site(s)

To prepare the plant site (or sites), remove all weeds and grasses so you’re starting with fresh, clean soil. Then, loosen the soil with a spading fork.

Spread the seeds throughout the garden, either by hand or with a seeding tool. Crisscross the area multiple times to ensure the seeds get distributed evenly.

To incorporate the seeds, rake very very lightly or go over the area with a thatcher. Make sure the seeds aren’t covered deeper than their own diameters.

Maintain Your Plant Site(s)

Native plants are low maintenance, but that doesn’t mean they need no maintenance at all.

You’ll still need to keep the ground moist while the seedlings are getting established. Be on the lookout for weeds, too, and pull them out regularly to prevent them from taking over your garden.

Be Patient

Remember to be patient when dealing with native plants (and all plants, for that matter).

It can take a while for them to become established — several years in some cases. Native trees and shrubs, in particular, will take a few years before they truly start to take shape and thrive in your yard.

Which Crops Thrive in Michigan’s Growing Zones?

Along with a variety of wildflowers, shrubs, trees, and ferns, many crops can thrive in Michigan’s various growing zones.¹³ The following are some of the state’s most popular and resilient crops that you might want to try planting:

73. Apples

Apples and apple trees are abundant in Michigan. In fact, Michigan is the third-largest apple producer in the United States with 14.9 million trees that cover 34,500 acres on 775 family-run farms.¹⁴

Because apples grow well in Zones 4-7,¹⁵ you can plant and tend to apple trees in any part of the state (although the planting times may vary).

Here are some of the most well-known apple varieties that grow in Michigan:

Braeburn: Spicy flavor, firm, crisp bite
Cortland: Tart, sweet
Empire: Tart, sweet
EverCrisp: Sweet, firm, juicy
Fuji: Sweet, tart, low acidity
Gala: Crisp, mellow, sweet
Golden Delicious: Spicy, sweet, thin-skinned
Honeycrisp: Sweet, crisp
Ida Red: Tangy, tart, crisp, juicy
Jonagold: Crips, juicy, tart, sweet
Jonathan: Spicy, tangy
McIntosh: Juicy, lightly tart
Northern Spy: Tart, acidic
Paula Red: Tart, strong aroma
Red Delicious: Sweet, crisp
Rome: Mildly sweet

74. Asparagus

Asparagus is even more prevalent in Michigan than apples. The Mitten State is the number one asparagus producer in the United States!¹⁶

In Michigan, the following types of asparagus are grown most frequently:

Millennium asparagus: Better-adapted to cold climates (like Michigan’s)
Jersey Giant asparagus: Disease-resistant
Jersey Knight asparagus: Tolerant of most soils

Asparagus grows well in Zones 4-8, meaning it can grow well throughout Michigan.

75. Blueberries

In a typical year, Michigan produces over 100 million pounds of blueberries, and farmers produce dozens of varieties of blueberries across the state.¹³

These varieties are best suited to Southern Michigan:

Bluecrop: Large, all-purpose berries
Bluejay: Sweet, medium-sized berries
Duke: Large, light-blue berries
Elliott: Large, firm, flavorful berries
Jersey: Extra-large berries
Little Giant: Small, sweet, aromatic berries
Nelson: Sweet, very large, firm berries
Patriot: Large, delicately sweet berries
Rubel: Large, light-to-medium blue berries
Spartan: Sweet, juicy, flavorful berries
Berkeley: Large, firm, light blue berries
Blueray: Large, dark blue, aromatic berries
Burlington: Sweet, light blue berries
Collins: Large, light blue berries
Coville: Large, light blue berries
Lateblue: Medium-to-large, firm, light blue berries
Northland: Super-sweet, medium berries
Toro: Large, juicy, sweet berries

On the other hand, these varieties fare better in northern Michigan:

Blueray: Large, dark blue, aromatic berries
Jersey: Extra-large berries
Northland: Super-sweet, medium berries
Patriot: Large, delicately sweet berries
Northblue: Dime-size, dark blue berries
Chippewa: Light blue, sweet, juicy berries
Bluetta: Large, firm, medium-to-dark blue berries

76. Cabbage

Michigan is the ninth-largest cabbage producer in the United States,¹⁹ yielding over 115 million pounds per year.

Cabbage is a cool-weather crop that grows very well in Michigan’s climate across all zones. Keep in mind, though, that you’ll need to start your cabbages indoors to set yourself up for a successful harvest.

77. Carrots

Every year, Michigan farmers plant approximately 7,000 acres of carrots. The state’s average yield is around 8.8 tons (or 350 50-pound bags) of carrots per acre.

Top shot of a sack full of newly harvested carrots.

(Image: Thomas Gamstaetter³⁸)

Four types of carrots are primarily grown here:

Imperator carrots: Large, straight, smooth roots about 8 inches long
Danvers carrots: Deep orange, short, broad at the top and narrow at the bottom
Nantes carrots: Cylindrical roots with blunt ends
Chantenay carrots: Thick, short, stout roots

78. Celery

Michigan is the second-largest celery-producing state in the United States, generating over 110 million pounds annually.¹³

Most of the celery in Michigan grows in the southwest counties. However, it can grow anywhere in Zones 2-10,²⁰ meaning you can grow it successfully anywhere in the state.

79. Cherries

Michigan is one of the country’s top cherry producers, specifically tart cherries.²¹ Several other varieties grow here, though.

In the southern part of the state, the following cherry varieties are most popular:

Cavalier: Early season, sweet cherries
Kristin: Early-mid season, sweet cherries
Ulster: Early-mid season, sweet cherries
BlackGold: Early-mid season, sweet cherries
Sam: Early-mid season, sweet cherries
Emperior Francis: Early-mid season, sweet cherries
WhiteGold: Early-mid season, sweet cherries
Schmidt: Late-mid season, sweet cherries
Regina: Late-season, sweet cherries
Hudson: Late-season, sweet cherries
Montmorency: Late-season, tart cherries
Balaton: Late-season, tart cherries

In the northern-lower portion and upper peninsula, you can find these varieties:

Hartland : Early season, sweet cherries
Kristin: Early-mid season, sweet cherries
Ulster: Early-mid season, sweet cherries
WhiteGold: Early-mid season, sweet cherries
Hedelfingen: Late-mid season, sweet cherries
Windsor: Late-mid season, sweet cherries
Gold: Late-mid season, sweet cherries
Northstar: Late-season, tart cherries

80. Chestnuts

Michigan is the number one chestnut grower in the United States.²² Several chestnuts grow here, including the following:

American chestnut: Sweet flavor (these chestnuts are the hardest to find)
Chinese chestnut: Starchy, lightly nutty
Japanese chestnut: Sweet, nutty
European chestnut: Starchy, sweet
Chinquapin: Very sweet, tender

81. Corn

Michigan’s farmers grow over 297 million bushels of corn per year,²³ contributing over $1 billion to the state’s economy.

The following are some of Michigan’s most commonly grown varieties of corn:

Flint corn: Extremely hard, also known as Indian corn
Dent corn: Higher in starch, lower in sugar
Heirloom corn: Colorful corn featuring red, yellow, black, white, blue, pink, and green kernels
Sweet corn: Highest in sugar

82. Cucumbers

Michigan produces over 68 million pounds of cucumbers annually and produces the most cucumbers in the country for pickling, specifically.²⁴

Cucumbers grow well in Zones 4-12, and they are particularly well suited to northern Michigan’s cool climate.

83. Grapes

Michigan is a major grape-growing state with over 13,000 vineyard acres throughout the state.² The state produces a wide range of grapes for wine, as well as table grapes.

The following are some of the most popular seedless table grapes that grow here:

Himrod (white grapes)
Interlaken Seedless (white grapes)
Lakemont (white grapes)
Marquis (white grapes)
Remaily Seedless (white grapes)

Plenty of seeded grapes grow in Michigan, too, including these:

Seneca (white grapes)
Kay Gray (white grapes)
Edelweiss (white grapes)
Golden Muscat (white grapes)
Buffalo (blue grapes)
Alden (blue grapes)
Steuben (blue grapes)
Sheridan (blue grapes)
Swenson Red (red grapes)
Yates (red grapes)

84. Onions

Michigan is responsible for producing over 79 million pounds of onions each year.³ They grow primarily in the state’s south and south central counties, including Allegan, Barry, Eaton, Ionia, Kent, Newaygo, Ottawa, and Van Buren.

Yellow onions and green onions (scallions) are the state’s most frequently grown varieties. Other types, including white and red onions, can also be cultivated here, though.

85. Peaches

Michigan produces over 21 million pounds of peaches per year.¹³ They are grown throughout the state, although most orchards are located in the west-central and southwest corner (near Lake Michigan), in the east near Lake St. Clair, and in the Northwest near Grand Rapids.

The following are some of the most popular peaches found in Michigan:

Red Haven peaches: Minimal fuzz, reddish-yellow skin, firm, sweet
Flamin’ Fury peaches: Late-blooming, juicy, sweet
Stellar peaches: Extra sweet, white flesh, aromatic

86. Peppers

Peppers are popular vegetables in Michigan gardens, especially because there are so many different varieties to choose from. It’s best to start these plants indoors so they don’t fall victim to the chilly temperatures of early spring.

Closeup of Jalapeño plant showing green leaves and red and green jalapeño fruits hanging from the stems.

(Image: Jill Wellington³⁷)

Here are some of the top pepper varieties to consider growing in Michigan:

California Wonder: Sweet, mild, green peppers
Bell Boy: Sweet, mild, green peppers
Lady Bell: Sweet, mild green peppers
Purple Belle: Sweet, mild peppers with purple skin
Chocolate Bell: Very sweet, mild peppers with dark brown skin
Gypsy: Sweet yellow or orange peppers
Summer Sweet: Wide, sweet peppers
Cherry Pick: Small, round, sweet, bright red peppers
Sweet Cherry: Sweet, slightly tart, mildly spicy, red peppers
Sweet Banana: Yellow peppers that are sweet, tangy, and mildly spicy
Cayenne: Skinny, bright red peppers with curved tips
Jalapeno: Very spicy green peppers
Hungarian Wax: Small, fruity, hot peppers that are red, yellow, or green
Red Cherry: Small, round, bright red peppers
Sunnybrook: Sweet, round, aromatic peppers
Early Pimento: Cone-shaped, bright red peppers

87. Potatoes

Michigan farmers harvest over 1.7 billion pounds of potatoes annually and ranks eighth in the country for potato production.⁴

These three varieties are most prevalent throughout the state:

White potatoes: Medium starch, slightly creamy
Russet potatoes: Dry, highly starchy
Red potatoes: Minimal starch

88. Squash

Michigan is responsible for growing and harvesting more than 162 million pounds of squash, which accounts for 23% of all squash grown in the United States.⁵

Several different varieties of squash grow throughout the state, including the following, which are categorized based on their scientific names:

Cucurbita pepo: Acorn squash, Courgette, Patty pan squash, Spaghetti squash, Summer squash, Zucchini
Cucurbita maxima: Autumn squash, Buttercup squash, Hubbard squash, Pumpkin squash
Cucurbita moschata: Butternut squash, Calabasa, Crookneck squash
Cucurbita mixta: Dishpan squash, Santo Domingo squash, Green gold cushaw, Miller family squash, Japanese pie squash

89. Snap Beans

Snap beans are one of the largest crops in Michigan, with over 25 million pounds harvested annually.¹³

Snap beans come in two main varieties: Bush beans and Pole beans. Bush beans are traditionally green or yellow, whereas pole beans come in a wider range of colors, including purple.

90. Soybeans

Michigan is the 12th-largest soybean producer in the United States, with more than two million acres planted statewide.⁶

Most of the soybeans grown in Michigan are processed to make feed for animals or cooking oil. The state’s largest soybean processor also exports them to Japan to produce other soy-based foods like tofu and miso.

91. Sugar Beets

Michigan is one of the only states in the country that grows sugar beets — which are white and mildly sweet and used to produce the sugar utilized in baked goods and other recipes — and approximately 900 sugarbeet growers harvest their crops here.⁷

There is only one sugar beet processor in the state. However, that company is the third-largest sugar beet processor in the United States.

92. Tomatoes

Michigan is the seventh-largest tomato producer in the United States, yielding 132,600 tons for processing and 60 million pounds for fresh markets.⁸

The following are some of the most popular tomato varieties grown here:

Brandywine tomatoes: Large, flavorful, juicy
Cherokee Purple tomatoes: Very large, dark red, sweet
Oxheart tomatoes: Extra-large, pink, mild flavor, minimal seeds
Rutgers tomatoes: Medium-sized, round, bright red
Amish paste tomatoes: Small, acorn-shaped, bright red

How To Grow Crops in Michigan

Most crops that grow in Michigan can thrive in all three primary hardiness zones (as well as their subzones). To successfully grow and harvest them, though — especially if you’re new to planting — it helps to follow these guidelines:

How To Grow Apples

Mid-to-late March, April, and June are considered the best times to grow apple trees and other fruit trees in Michigan.

Before you plant an apple tree, make sure the soil is dry and easy to crumble — remember that apple trees need full sun, too. Dig the hole a big larger and deeper than the tree’s roots (if the hole is too deep, the tree might settle too low after it’s watered).

Trim off broken or damaged roots, but don’t do any additional pruning. Dig the hole to accommodate the roots (instead of cutting the roots to fit the hole).

Fill the hole in the most firable (crumbly) soil and keep large clods out. Tamp the soil down to get rid of air pockets, then water immediately.

New trees need around five gallons of water 1-3 times per week.

How To Grow Asparagus

To grow asparagus, start by choosing an area with sandy, well-drained soil. Ideally, it will be a full-sun location, although dappled shade from trees is alright.

Eliminate any weeds in the garden, then plant asparagus crowns in a trench about 10 to 14 inches deep. Cover the crowns with two inches of soil after planting.

Keep in mind that it can take 2-3 years to get a good asparagus harvest. This crop requires a lot of patience.

Don’t harvest at all during the first year, and harvest sparingly during the second.

How To Grow Blueberries

Blueberries grow best in sandy, acidic soil (the soils of northern Michigan are particularly good for this). They also require full sun or partial shade.

To plant your blueberry bush, dig a hole that is about 1.5 times as deep and 2 times as wide as its container. Add peat moss and compost to the hole, making a small dent for the root ball.

Place the bush in the hole, making sure the root ball isn’t more than two inches below the surface. Cover the hole with dirt and tamp it down and consider adding mulch to help with water preservation.

Water the blueberry bush regularly, making sure the soil stays moist but avoiding standing water.

How To Grow Cabbage

Start to grow your cabbage plants indoors in March. When the mid-spring frosts have ended, you can move them outside into your garden.

You can grow cabbage easily in most soils as long as it receives sufficient moisture. Pick an area that receives full sun.

Closeup of a seedling tray showing cabbage seedlings.

(Image: Alexey Hulsov³⁶)

In general, shallow cultivation is best and helps to prevent root damage — cabbage is a shallow-rooted plant.

Be sure to apply moisture evenly and consistently throughout the season. Avoid watering overhead in the late evening, though, because that can cause black rot and mildew to grow.

How To Grow Carrots

When it comes to how to grow carrots, they typically grow best in deep, loose, and well-drained soil with minimal stones and obstructions. Avoid soils that become crusty after rain.

You can typically sow carrots outdoors in April — pick an area that receives full sun. Be sure to keep the soil moist until the carrot seedlings at at least an inch tall.

Thin them at this point so there is about two inches of space between each plant.

Reduce watering when the carrots are about three-quarters of their mature size to reduce the likelihood that they’ll split.

It’s best to harvest carrots when they’re no more than 1-1.5 inches wide. Harvesting can start as early as July and go through the end of October.

How To Grow Celery

Celery grows best in soil with a large amount of organic matter and an area that receives full or partial sun. When it comes to how to grow celery, you can start to plant indoors in March and then move them outdoors during May or June.

Remember that celery is a shallow-rooted vegetable that requires watering often. Don’t water overhead, as they can increase the risk of disease.

Add mulch when celery plants are around six inches tall, too, to preserve moisture.

You can typically harvest celery 2.5 to four months after planting. Either pull out individual stalks or the entire plant.

How To Grow Cherries

The process of growing cherry trees is similar to the process of growing apples and other fruit trees.

Plant these trees during late March, April, or June at the latest. Make sure you choose an area with well-drained soil and full sun.

Water cherry trees deeply every other day during the first week.

During the second week, water them deeply two or three times. From here, you can water the trees once a week for the rest of the initial season.

How To Grow Chestnuts

Chestnut trees grow best in sandy, acidic soil (although they can grow in clay-heavy soil if planted on a slope to allow for adequate drainage).

Plant your trees in the early spring as soon as the soil is workable. Make sure the growing area has full sun (otherwise, the tree may grow but will not produce chestnuts).

Chestnut trees typically need about one gallon of water per week. In very hot weather, though, they may need additional hydration.

Keep in mind that it takes 3-5 years for chestnut trees to start producing nuts. By the time they’re ten years old, though, they produce up to 10-20 pounds per tree.

How To Grow Corn

Start growing corn in Michigan around the beginning or middle of May after the last frost has happened. Pick a space with loamy soil and full sun.

Sow corn seeds 1-2 inches deep in rows about three feet apart. Plant 2-3 seeds every 12 inches.

You can harvest corn about three weeks after the corn ears have developed silk. Pull back the husk to check before harvesting.

How To Grow Cucumbers

The most effective way to grow cucumbers is to start them indoors 2-3 weeks before the last frost of the season. After about 3-4 weeks, in late May or early June, you can move them outdoors.

Cucumbers need lots of light, so plant them in a full-sun location.

Harvest them when they’ve reached the size you desire. It usually takes between 35 and 60 days after planting transplants for them to grow to full size.

How To Grow Onions

To grow onions, start them indoors during February or March. After about 10-12 weeks, in April or May, you can move them outdoors to a spot that gets full sun.

If you want to store onions for the winter, let them grow until their tops naturally fall over.

If you want to harvest them sooner, knock the tops down yourself, then leave the bulbs in the ground for 1-2 weeks so they can develop thicker skins. Harvest them when the leaves are mostly dry.

How To Grow Peaches

Generally, the best time to plant peach trees in Michigan is from late April to early May.

Peaches grow best in fine-sandy loam soils that have good internal drainage.¹⁰ They also thrive when they receive full sun.

It typically takes 2-4 years for peach trees to bear fruit after they’ve been planted. Prime peach harvesting season runs from early July to the middle of September — and the middle of August is considered the best time for peach picking.

How To Grow Peppers

It helps to start growing peppers indoors around eight weeks before the last frost. Then, move them outside when temperatures stay consistently warm (around 70-80 degrees Fahrenheit during the daytime and 60-70 degrees Fahrenheit in the evening).

Peppers grow best in warm and well-drained soil. They also require full sun for at least 6-8 hours per day.

Sweet peppers usually mature and can be harvested within 60-90 days. However, hot peppers can take up to 150 days.

How To Grow Potatoes

Before learning how to grow potatoes, keep in mind that they are a cool season crop. They grow best in temperatures of 65-80 degrees Fahrenheit during the day and 55-65 degrees Fahrenheit at night.

The soil for potatoes should be cultivated 6 to 8 inches deep in the spring.

When the potato plants have reached about 8-12 inches tall, they should be hilled. Hilling involves making 3-6-inch mounds of soil about 12-15 inches from each plant’s base.

Remember to plant potatoes, in different locations each year — just make sure the crops receive full sun for at least six hours per day.

Avoid planting them in areas where tomatoes, peppers, or beets were grown during the last year to reduce disease risk and insect problems, too.

How To Grow Squash

You can start growing squash indoors in late April or May. After about 3-4 weeks, during late May or June, you can move them outdoors to a full-sun area.

Squash (especially pumpkins) also grows well from seeds in Michigan.

Varieties of squash showing pumpkins and ornamental squash on a wooden plank.

(Image: Hans³⁵)

It takes about 50-125 days to harvest squash from seeds and 35-110 days to harvest from transplants.

How To Grow Snap Beans

You can grow snap beans (and other types of beans like soybeans and fava beans) from seeds during May or June when temperatures range from 60-85 degrees Fahrenheit. Pick an area with well-drained soil and full sun.

Snap beans take about 60-100 days to reach full maturity and be ready to harvest.

How To Grow Sugar Beets

Grow sugar beets from seeds directly in the ground when temperatures reach around 55-65 degrees Fahrenheit in the spring.¹¹ If you plant them in the fall, wait until temperatures are consistently below 85 degrees Fahrenheit.

Sugar beets require full sun and loose, well-drained soil. Avoid planting them in a spot with lots of rocks or other obstructions.

It takes about 55 days for these plants to mature.

How To Grow Tomatoes

Start growing tomatoes indoors about 6-8 weeks before you plan to move them outside. They do best outdoors when temperatures are consistently between 70 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit.

Make sure you plant tomatoes in a full-sun location. Plant them in different locations each year, too, and avoid planting them in the same area where you grew potatoes or peppers the year before, as this can increase the risk of diseases and insect issues.

After about 60-80 days from transplanting tomatoes, you should be able to harvest them.

Tips For Planting in the Growing Zone Michigan Offers You

If you want to plant any of the flowers, trees, shrubs, or crops listed in the previous sections, these tips can help you succeed and support your garden year-round.

Zone 4 Month-By-Month Planting Activities

People who live in Zones 4A or 4B should follow this planting and garden care schedule:

Month	Planting Activities
January	Brush ice and snow off of trees and shrub limbs to avoid breakage. Wrap the trunks of newly planted trees and those with thin bark, such as maple trees. Plan for the coming season’s garden. Choose where you’ll plant various crops and start working on carpentry projects like frames and trellises.
February	Clean and sharpen tools Order seeds Collect seed starting equipment (lights, heat mats, pots, etc.) Start onion seeds inside
March	Prune fruit trees, berry bushes, and ornamental shrubs Start cabbage and celery seeds indoors
April	Fertilize grapes and blueberries before growth starts again. Sow tomato seeds indoors during the 3rd or 4th week of the month. Get your soil tested¹² Harden off cool-season crops (including onions) to transplant them outside) Choose smaller plants (overly mature ones are more likely to flower prematurely) Sow seeds outdoors for asparagus, carrots, onions, and potatoes. Establish new plantings of grapes, asparagus, and rhubarb as soon as the ground is workable.
May	Start seeds indoors for pumpkin, cucumbers, winter squash, and tomatoes. Sow seeds outdoors for carrots, late cabbage, onions, snap beans, and potatoes (if you haven’t already) Plant new trees and shrubs Examine fruit trees weekly for caterpillars and remove and destroy limbs where they’re nesting. “Hill up” potatoes.¹⁷ If the forecast allows, sow seeds outdoors for beans, pumpkin, and corn. Plant partial rows of beans and corn and do successive plantings every week or two. By the end of this month, you can plant any remaining crops outdoors.
June	Cover cabbage with floating row covers to protect them from cabbage moth and flea beetles (if you’ve had problems with these critters before) Set up a trellis system for tomato plants Keep an eye out and treat your garden for pests if you notice they’re damaging your plants. When the soil has warmed up, apply a 2-4 inch layer of mulch to vegetable beds, flower beds, and around trees and shrubs.

Month	Activities
July	Start seeds indoors for your fall garden. Sow seeds outdoors for late crops of carrots, cabbage, cucumbers, and corn. Cover these crops with pre-moistened potting soil mix to prevent crusting and cracking. Cover the rows with a thin layer of mulch or a floating row cover fabric for extra protection.
August	Sow late crops of carrots, cabbage, cucumbers, and onion through the 15th of this month. Keep up with bug removal and pest control. Avoid pruning trees and shrubs — doing so too late in the season can stimulate new growth that won’t harden off before the weather cools down again. Harvest onions (cut their tops back to 1″ and dry them thoroughly before storing them).
September	Continue inspecting for pests Make plans for mulching your plant beds for winter. Harvest pumpkins, squashes, and gourds before the first frost. Harvest second plantings of cool-season crops like cabbage, and snap beans.
October	Drain hoses before the first hard frost. Collect soil samples for testing to prepare for next year’s lawn and garden fertilization. Harvest remaining summer produce. Add organic matter (such as manure, shredded leaves, rotted sawdust, or rotted straw) to the garden and plow it under.
November	Empty, clean, and store planters Wait as long as possible to harvest cabbage (frost exposure makes it sweeter) Tuck less hardy late-season crops (carrots, cabbage, etc.) under a thick layer of organic matter to prevent them from freezing. If your soil has frozen to at least an inch thick, apply a 2-4-inch layer of mulch over it.
December	Wrap the trunks of young trees Apply a thick layer of straw over root crops (such as potatoes and carrots). This protection allows you to harvest them in the winter.

Zone 5 Month-By-Month Planting Activities

If you live in Zones 5A or 5B, follow these planting and garden care guidelines:

Month	Planting Activities
January	Brush ice and snow off the tree and shrub limbs to avert breakage. Wrap the trunks of newly planted trees and those with thin bark like maple trees. Make a plan for the upcoming season’s garden.
February	Clean and sharpen gardening tools. Order seeds. Collect seed starting equipment (lights, heat mats, pots, etc.) Start seeds inside for cabbage, celery, and onions.
March	Prune your fruit trees, berry bushes, and ornamental shrubs. Start tomatoes and peppers indoors Clean up and compost dried debris from garden beds.
April	During the second or third week of April, harden off indoor plants to transplant outdoors. Choose smaller plants to prevent premature flowering. Fertilize grapes and blueberries before growth starts again. Sow seeds indoors for peppers, and tomatoes if you haven’t already. Get your soil tested.¹² Sow seeds outdoors for asparagus, carrots, peas, and potatoes. Establish new plantings of grapes and asparagus as soon as you can work the ground.
May	Measure the rainfall so you know when to water (gardens need about one inch of rain per week from April or May to September). Start seeds indoors for pumpkins, cucumbers, winter squash, peppers, and tomatoes if you haven’t already. Sow seeds directly outdoors for carrots, late cabbage, onions, and peas. “Hill up” potatoes.¹⁷ Set up a trellis for tomato plants. Plant new trees and shrubs. Depending on the forecast, sow seeds outdoors for beans, okra, pumpkins, corn, and watermelon. By the end of May, you should be able to plant almost everything outdoors. Protect newly transplanted vegetable plants from cutworms by placing cardboard collars around them.
June	Cover cabbage crops with floating row covers to protect them from cabbage moths and flea beetles (if you’ve had problems with them in the past). Keep an eye out and treat your garden for pests if you notice they’re damaging your plants. Avoid gardening when vegetable plant leaves are wet (this can cause diseases to spread from one plant to another). After you’ve established your vegetable garden, water it thoroughly once a week instead of lightly watering it every day. Harvest spring vegetables and plant warm-season crops like cucumbers, summer squash, and beans.

Month	Activities
July	Start seeds indoors for your fall garden now. Watch tomato plants for signs of leaf diseases. Continue monitoring for pests. Sow seeds outdoors for beans, carrots, cabbage, cucumbers, summer squash, and corn. Cover them with pre-moistened soil to prevent crusting and cracking. Add a thin layer of mulch or floating row cover fabric for extra protection. Check the soil moisture of container-grown vegetables and flowers daily (they might need more water as temperatures rise).
August	Sow peas in mid or late August so you can harvest a fall crop. Continue bug removal and pest damage inspections. Avoid pruning trees and shrubs to avoid stimulating new growth that won’t harden off before it gets cold. Harvest onions. Cut the onion tops back to 1″ and dry them thoroughly before you store them. Pick summer squash and zucchini every day or two to encourage the plants to continue producing. Remove old plants that have stopped producing to avoid creating a shelter for insects and diseases. Control weeds before they can spread.
September	Continue inspecting for pests. Prepare to mulch beds for the winter. Harvest pumpkins, summer squashes, and gourds before the first frost. Harvest second plantings of cool-season vegetables like cabbage. Allow plants to finish the summer growth cycle. Avoid heavy fertilization and excessive pruning, which can encourage late growth. Add manure, compost, or leaves to the soil to increase its organic matter content. Continue pulling weeds.
October	Drain the hoses and empty bird baths before a hard frost occurs. Collect soil samples for testing. Harvest remaining summer produce.
November	Empty, clean, and store planters so they stay dry during the winter. Wait as long as possible to harvest cabbage, as frost makes them sweeter. Instead of harvesting late-season crops (carrots, cabbage, winter squash, etc.), leave them in the garden and cover them with a thick layer of straw to prevent early freezing. Spread manure, crushed leaves, rotted straw, or rotted sawdust on top of the garden and dig the material under to add more organic matter to the soil. If your soil has frozen at least an inch thick, apply a 2-4-inch layer of mulch.
December	Wrap the trunks of young trees. Clean gardening tools. Apply a layer of much to all planting beds. Add a thick layer of straw over root crops like potatoes and carrots to protect them so you can harvest them during the winter.

Zone 6 Month-By-Month Planting Activities

If you live in Zones 6A or 6B, use this planting and garden care schedule as a guide:

Month	Planting Activities
January	Brush off ice and snow from the tree and shrub limbs to prevent them from breaking. Wrap the trunks of newly planted trees and those with thin bark, such as maple trees. Make plans for the upcoming season’s garden.
February	Clean and sharpen your garden tools. Order seeds Collect seed starting equipment, including lights, heat mats, and pots. Wash and sterilize seed-starting containers. Start seeds inside for cabbage, celery, and onions.
March	Plant peas and potatoes directly in the garden at the end of the month. Prune your fruit trees, berry bushes, and ornamental shrubs. Start tomatoes and peppers indoors, along with other cool-season vegetables. Clean up leftover debris from garden beds and toss them in the compost pile. Get your soil tested.¹²
April	Measure the rainfall. Your garden needs about one inch of rain weekly from April to September. During the first week of April, start hardening off onions and other cool-season crops that are at least five weeks old. Choose smaller plants because more mature ones might flower prematurely. Sow carrots, peas, and onions directly outside if the weather permits “Hill up” potatoes.¹⁷ Fertilize grapes and blueberries before growth starts again. Sow seeds indoors for peppers and tomatoes. Sow seeds outdoors for asparagus, carrots, peas, and potatoes. Establish new plantings of fruit trees, grapes, and asparagus. Add organic matter to the soil to improve drainage and overall soil health.
May	Start seeds indoors for pumpkins, cucumber, and summer and winter squash. Sow seeds directly into the garden for carrots and onions. Plant new trees and shrubs by the end of this month. “Hill up” potatoes¹⁷ Depending on the forecast, sow seeds outdoors for beans, pumpkin, and corn. By the end of this month, you should be able to plant almost everything outdoors. Cover cabbage with a floating row cover to protect it from cabbage moths and flea beetles. Watch for other pests and pest damage. Use cardboard collars to protect newly transplanted vegetables from cutworms.
June	Continue monitoring for pests and insects. Avoid gardening when plant leaves are wet, as walking through a wet garden can spread disease from one plant to another. Water the garden thoroughly once a week instead of a light daily watering. Monitor spring crops closely as the weather warms up. Plant warm-season crops as you harvest spring vegetables. Maintain uniform soil moisture by mulching and watering consistently and correctly. Set up a trellis system for your tomatoes. Plant seeds for warm-season vegetable crops like beans, summer squash, and cucumbers. Weed the garden regularly.

Month	Activities
July	Sow carrots in late July through August. Watch the leaves of tomato plants for leaf spot diseases. Continue monitoring for pests and insects. Keep deadheading flowers as needed to prolong the bloom season. Sow seeds throughout July for late crops of carrots, cabbage, cucumbers, summer squash, and corn. Cover them with pre-moistened potting soil and a thin layer of mulch for extra moisture and to avoid cracking. Eliminate stagnant water to control mosquitos. Check the soil moisture of container-grown vegetables and flowers, providing extra water as needed. Water the garden deeply as needed.
August	Sow peas in mid or late August for a fall crop. Continue your bug removal and pest damage inspections. Avoid pruning trees and shrubs. Doing so will stimulate new growth that won’t harden off before cold weather arrives. Harvest onions and cut their tops back to one inch. Dry them thoroughly before you store them. Pick summer squash and zucchini every day or two to ensure they keep producing. Remove old plants that have stopped producing to prevent insects from sheltering in them. Continue controlling weeds. Dig potatoes after the vines have died.
September	Keep inspecting for pests. Make plans to mulch beds for the winter. Harvest and store pumpkins, summer squashes, and gourds. Continue harvesting the second plantings of cool-season vegetables. Add manure, compost, or leaves to the soil to increase its organic matter content.
October	Drain hoses and empty bird baths before a hard frost. Collect soil samples for testing. Harvest remaining summer produce before a hard frost arrives.
November	Empty, clean, and store planters for the winter. Leave cabbages as long as possible before harvesting, as the frost can make them sweeter. Leave late-season crops in the garden and cover them with a thick layer of straw to avoid freezing. Spread manure, leaves, rotted sawdust, or rotted straw on top of the garden and press them under to add more organic matter. If the soil has frozen to at least an inch thick, apply a 2-4-inch layer of mulch.
December	Wrap the trunks of young trees for protection. Clean garden tools thoroughly. Apply a layer of mulch to all planting beds. Protect root crops like potatoes and carrots with a thick layer of straw so you can harvest them through the winter.

Reasons To Grow More Trees in Michigan

There are plenty of reasons to grow a tree (or two or more) in Michigan alongside various crops and native plants. You have plenty of options to choose from in the Great Lake State, after all, including a wide range of native trees like maple, birch, and dogwood.

Why are trees important in Michigan?

For starters, they help to clean the air by absorbing pollutants and releasing fresh oxygen for humans to breathe. They also capture rainwater and help to reduce the risk of flooding and landslides.

Trees also serve as homes for much of the world’s (including Michigan’s) wildlife, from birds to squirrels. They encourage biodiversity and keep these creatures safe from harm.

Don’t forget that trees help to cool the planet — and combat the harmful effects of climate change — as well by sucking in carbon dioxide and releasing oxygen.

Which Trees Can Grow in Michigan?

This state certainly isn’t the answer to the question, “What state has the most trees?” but there are plenty of different types of trees that can thrive here.

What plant zone is Michigan in contributes a lot to the flora found in the state.

There are plenty of native trees that you can consider planting in Michigan, from the many types of Oak Trees listed in the tables above to various types of Magnolia Trees, which produce beautiful pink blossoms in the springtime.

Low-angle shot of a type of Magnolia Tree showing its blooming pink flowers with the sky in the background.

(Image: May_hokkaido³⁴)

Fruit trees, including apple, peach, and cherry trees, can also grow here, whether you want to plant an entire orchard or just add a few new trees to your property.

How To Grow a Tree in Michigan: What Plant Zone Is Michigan In?

When you prepare to plant an Acorn Tree, Maple Tree, or anything in between, be sure to keep these tips in mind to set it up for long-term healthy growth:

Choose the right tree type: Consult the charts listed above to pick a tree that is ideal to grow in your specific area. Be wary of choosing trees like the Black Locust Tree, too, because although they offer benefits to the soil, they can quickly become invasive.
Plant at the right time: The spring and fall seasons are generally considered the best seasons for tree planting
Call before you dig: Always call 811 to have utility lines marked before you start digging. Avoid planting below power lines as well.
Dig the hole: The hole should be saucer-shaped, as deep as the tree’s root ball, and three times as wide. Be sure to break up the hole’s sides to help the roots grow through.
Set the tree in the hole correctly: Cut off burlap wrapping and non-biodegradable materials, including plastic pots and ties, then set the root ball in the hole’s center.
Fill in the hole: Fill the hole in with soil, then water it thoroughly to help it settle and eliminate air pockets.
Add mulch: Mulching around trees with a 3-4-inch layer — with a six-inch bare circle around the tree to avoid trunk decay — will help to keep pests away.
Avoid fertilizer: For at least 1-3 years after planting, you don’t need to worry about fertilizing the tree. Adding fertilizer can actually suppress root growth and interfere with the tree’s development.
Water regularly: When watering a tree, make sure the root system gets soaked thoroughly.
A good rule of thumb is to use 1-2 gallons of water for each inch of trunk diameter when you live in a cool climate like Michigan. If your tree had a trunk diameter of three inches, for example, you’d use 3-6 gallons of water.
Prune regularly: Prune the dead or broken branches and small twigs — sometimes called “suckers” — that grow from the tree’s base to keep it healthy.

You can use stakes to stabilize the young tree, too. Staking is extra helpful if you live in one of Michigan’s windier areas (including Detroit, Allendale, and Norton Shores).¹⁸

So, how to stake a tree (or trees)?

Simply place two wooden or metal stakes in the ground on each side of the tree about 6-8 inches away from the root ball. Tie the tree to the stakes loosely with rope or a wide strap.

After one year, take the stakes away. The tree should be strong enough to hold itself up by that point.

What Plant Zone Is Michigan In? How Do I Know Which Growing Zone I Live In?

The easiest way to determine which Michigan growing zone you live in is by using the search tool available on the USDA’s website.¹

To do this, you just have to visit the site linked above. Type your zip code into the search bar to see which zone appears on the screen. You can also zoom in on the map, find your location, and see what color and zone correspond to it.

What should you do after you figure out your growing zone? From here, you can start deciding which plants you want to grow and make a plan to set yourself up to care for them successfully.

Do Other States Have Planting Zones Similar to Michigan?

Yes. Michigan’s three planting zones resemble the zones in many other parts of the U.S.

For example, many parts of the Northeast and Northern Midwestern United States fall into the Zone 4 and Zone 5 categories.

Furthermore, the answer to what plant zone is Michigan in, is the same as in the Mountain West, Midwest, and parts of the South.

Frequently Asked Questions About What Plant Zone Is Michigan In?

Should I Start My Plants Indoors?

It’s a good idea to start your plants indoors (this is at least the case for some crops). The last frost in Michigan can occur as late as June in some areas (primarily in the northern parts of the state).

When Should I Start Growing Plants Indoors?

A good rule of thumb is to start your seedlings about 6-10 weeks before the last frost date is scheduled (the previous sections feature more detailed instructions for different crops).

Planting Zones Guide: USDA Hardiness Zone Maps, Temp Zones by Zip Code

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References

¹US Department of Agriculture. (2023, April 10). USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map. USDA | Agricultural Research Service. Retrieved September 26, 2023, from <https://planthardiness.ars.usda.gov/>

²Michigan Economic Development Corporation. (2023, August 29). 5 Things to Know About Michigan Wine. Pure Michigan. Retrieved September 26, 2023, from <https://www.michigan.org/article/5-things-know-about-michigan-wine-0>

³the Michigan Ag Council. (2022, September 25). ONIONS. Michigan Grown Michigan Great. Retrieved September 26, 2023, from <https://michigangrown.org/onions/>

⁴Michigan Potato Industry Commission. (2023). Potatoes 101. Michigan Potatoes. Retrieved September 26, 2023, from <https://www.mipotato.com/potatoes-101>

⁵Cook, R. (2023, September 25). Ranking Of States That Produce The Most Squash. Beef2Live. Retrieved September 26, 2023, from <https://beef2live.com/story-ranking-states-produce-squash-0-225781>

⁶the Michigan Ag Council. (2022, September 25). Soybeans. Michigan Grown Michigan Great. Retrieved September 26, 2023, from <https://michigangrown.org/soybeans/>

⁷the Michigan Ag Council. (2022, September 25). Sugar. Michigan Grown Michigan Great. Retrieved September 26, 2023, from <https://michigangrown.org/sugar/>

⁸the Michigan Ag Council. (2022, September 25). Tomatoes. Michigan Grown Michigan Great. Retrieved September 26, 2023, from <https://michigangrown.org/tomatoes/>

⁹Current Results Publishing Ltd. (2023). Average Annual Sunshine by State. Current Results. Retrieved September 26, 2023, from <https://www.currentresults.com/Weather/US/average-annual-state-sunshine.php>

¹⁰US Department of Agriculture. (1999, August). Crop Profile for Peaches in Michigan. IPM Data. Retrieved September 26, 2023, from <https://ipmdata.ipmcenters.org/documents/cropprofiles/MIpeaches.pdf>

¹¹Lofgren, K. (2021, August 16). HOW TO GROW SUGAR BEETS FOR FOOD AND FODDER. Gardener’s Path. Retrieved September 26, 2023, from <https://gardenerspath.com/plants/vegetables/grow-sugar-beets/>

¹²Michigan State University. (2023). MSU Soil Test. Michigan State University. Retrieved September 26, 2023, from <https://homesoiltest.msu.edu/get-started>

¹³Michigan Department of Agriculture & Rural Development. (2019, September 27). Michigan Agriculture Facts & Figures. State of Michigan. Retrieved September 26, 2023, from <https://www.michigan.gov/-/media/Project/Websites/mdard/documents/business-development/mi_ag_facts_figures.pdf?rev=9ca97e867d0d40b392470b02a2694e50>

¹⁴Michigan Apples. (2023). Michigan Apple Varieties. Michigan Apples. Retrieved September 26, 2023, from <https://www.michiganapples.com/About/Varieties>

¹⁵Orange Pippin Ltd. (2010, October 31). Growing apple trees in the North American climate. Orange Pippin Trees Trees. Retrieved September 26, 2023, from <https://www.orangepippintrees.com/articles/fruit-tree-advice/growing-apple-trees-in-the-north-american-climate>

¹⁶Moore, L. (2023, June 1). 5 facts about Michigan’s ‘Asparagus Capital of the World’. M Live | Michigan. Retrieved September 26, 2023, from <https://www.mlive.com/public-interest/2023/06/5-facts-about-michigans-asparagus-capital-of-the-world.html>

¹⁷Larum, D. (2021, April 26). Covering Potato Plants: How To Hill Up Potato Plants. Gardening Know How. Retrieved September 26, 2023, from <https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/edible/vegetables/potato/how-to-hill-potato-plants.htm>

¹⁸Robinson, J. (2023, February 22). THE TEN WINDIEST TOWNS/CITIES IN MICHIGAN. 99.1 WFMK. Retrieved September 26, 2023, from <https://99wfmk.com/michigans-windiest-cities/>

¹⁹the Michigan Ag Council. (2022, September 25). Cabbage. Michigan Grown Michigan Great. Retrieved September 26, 2023, from <https://michigangrown.org/cabbage/>

²⁰Hendricks, R. (2021, May 17). How To Grow Celery The Right Way. Epic Gardening. Retrieved September 26, 2023, from <https://www.epicgardening.com/how-to-grow-celery/>

²¹Glisson, S. (2022, June 8). Which US State Produces The Most Cherries? Tasting Table. Retrieved September 26, 2023, from <https://www.tastingtable.com/889249/which-us-state-produces-the-most-cherries/>

²²Carmody, S. (2016, December 23). Michigan ranks no. 1 in the U.S. in the number of chestnut growers. Michigan Radio. Retrieved September 26, 2023, from <https://www.michiganradio.org/business/2016-12-23/michigan-ranks-no-1-in-the-u-s-in-the-number-of-chestnut-growers>

²³the Michigan Ag Council. (2022, September 25). Field Corn. Michigan Grown Michigan Great. Retrieved September 26, 2023, from <https://michigangrown.org/field-corn/>

²⁴the Michigan Ag Council. (2022, September 25). Cucumbers. Michigan Grown Michigan Great. Retrieved September 26, 2023, from <https://michigangrown.org/cucumbers/>

²⁵Minnesota Wildflowers. (2023). Eurybia macrophylla (Large-leaved Aster). Minnesota Wildflowers. Retrieved September 27, 2023, from <https://www.minnesotawildflowers.info/flower/large-leaved-aster>

²⁶Elsevier B.V. (2023). Scutellaria lateriflora. Science Direct. Retrieved September 27, 2023, from <https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/medicine-and-dentistry/scutellaria-lateriflora>

²⁷Missouri Botanical Garden. (2023). Symphyotrichum puniceum. Missouri Botanical Garden. Retrieved September 27, 2023, from <https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=277246>

²⁸TWC Staff. (2023, February 17). Matteuccia struthiopteris. Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center. Retrieved September 27, 2023, from <https://www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=MAST>

²⁹TWC Staff. (2022, November 23). Aralia racemosa. Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center. Retrieved September 27, 2023, from <https://www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=arra>

³⁰TWC Staff. (2023, February 23). Pycnanthemum virginianum. Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center. Retrieved September 27, 2023, from <https://www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=PYVI>

³¹JMS. (2023, January 27). Symphyotrichum oolentangiense. Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center. Retrieved September 27, 2023, from <https://www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=SYOO>

³²TWC Staff. (2023, February 24). Rosa blanda. Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center. Retrieved September 27, 2023, from <https://www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=robl>

³³Hilty, J. (2020). Smooth Blue Aster. Illinois Wildflowers. Retrieved September 27, 2023, from <https://www.illinoiswildflowers.info/prairie/plantx/sm_asterx.htm>

³⁴Photo by May_hokkaido. Pixabay. Retrieved from <https://pixabay.com/photos/saucer-magnolia-springtime-flower-5141096/>

³⁵Photo by Hans. Pixabay. Retrieved from <https://pixabay.com/photos/pumpkins-ornamental-gourds-59923/>

³⁶Photo by Alexey Hulsov. Pixabay. Retrieved from <https://pixabay.com/photos/seedling-cabbage-bed-plants-green-1386653/>

³⁷Photo by Jill Wellington. Pixabay. Retrieved from <https://pixabay.com/photos/jalapeno-peppers-red-jalapeno-2708676/>

³⁸Photo by Thomas Gamstaetter. Unsplash. Retrieved from <https://unsplash.com/photos/IFGVE61AAno>

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What Plant Zone Is Michigan In? 92 Plants to Grow in MI Hardiness Zones

Introduction to the USDA Zones: The Hardiness Zone Map

How To Use the Planting Zone Map

Why Do Hardiness Zones Matter?

What Zone Is Michigan For Planting?

About the Planting Zones Michigan Is Home To

Michigan Native Plants: Which Plants Thrive in the Michigan Growing Zone?

Zone 5B/6A/6B

Zone 5A/5B/6A

Zone 4A/4B/5A

Why Should You Grow Native Plants?

No Fertilizers Needed

Fewer Pesticides Required

Less Water Needed

Reduce Air Pollution

Support Wildlife and Pollinators

How To Grow Native Plants in Michigan

Assess Your Property for Existing Native Plants

Consider the Amount of Sun Your Property Gets

Check the Soil Type

Check the Soil Drainage

Obtain Native Plant Materials

Prepare Your Plant Site(s)

Maintain Your Plant Site(s)

Be Patient

Which Crops Thrive in Michigan’s Growing Zones?

73. Apples

74. Asparagus

75. Blueberries

76. Cabbage

77. Carrots

78. Celery

79. Cherries

80. Chestnuts

81. Corn

82. Cucumbers

83. Grapes

84. Onions

85. Peaches

86. Peppers

87. Potatoes

88. Squash

89. Snap Beans

90. Soybeans

91. Sugar Beets

92. Tomatoes

How To Grow Crops in Michigan

How To Grow Apples

How To Grow Asparagus

How To Grow Blueberries

How To Grow Cabbage

How To Grow Carrots

How To Grow Celery

How To Grow Cherries

How To Grow Chestnuts

How To Grow Corn

How To Grow Cucumbers

How To Grow Onions

How To Grow Peaches

How To Grow Peppers

How To Grow Potatoes

How To Grow Squash

How To Grow Snap Beans

How To Grow Sugar Beets

How To Grow Tomatoes

Tips For Planting in the Growing Zone Michigan Offers You

Zone 4 Month-By-Month Planting Activities

Zone 5 Month-By-Month Planting Activities

Zone 6 Month-By-Month Planting Activities

Reasons To Grow More Trees in Michigan

Which Trees Can Grow in Michigan?

How To Grow a Tree in Michigan: What Plant Zone Is Michigan In?

What Plant Zone Is Michigan In? How Do I Know Which Growing Zone I Live In?

Do Other States Have Planting Zones Similar to Michigan?

Frequently Asked Questions About What Plant Zone Is Michigan In?

Should I Start My Plants Indoors?

When Should I Start Growing Plants Indoors?

Read More About What Plant Zone Is Michigan In?

Planting Zones Guide: USDA Hardiness Zone Maps, Temp Zones by Zip Code

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