Hello Laurie,

You are asking for professional landscape and design help for your property. There are several associations that may help you with your search: Michigan Green Industry Association-- https://www.landscape.org/ ; Association of Professional Gardeners-- https://www.associationofprofessionalgardeners.org/ . You can also consult local nurseries for recommendations.

In the meantime, here is some information which will help you when choosing plants for a landscape. Several factors must be considered including: site adaptability such as—soil type, exposure to wind and rain, light levels—sun or shade, cold hardiness of plants, function and purpose—what is the reason for the plants—windbreak, privacy or aesthetic qualities, and maintenance needs.

Read more about designing a landscape.

https://archive.lib.msu.edu/DMC/extension_publications/e2941/E2941-2005.PDF

Before you decide on the type of plant, you should also be aware of your hardiness zone (Washtenaw County is 6a) and the type of soil that you are planting in. To have the soil analyzed, obtain a soil test kit; go to: https://www.canr.msu.edu/resources/soil_test_kit_self-mailer

An easy way to remove the old grass is by smothering. Mow the grass, cover with several layers of newspapers or kraft paper and cover the whole bed with three inches of mulch. The bed should be ready to plant in about 6 months.

Once you have the soil analyzed and know the site conditions, you can investigate possible plants. Read about Native plants here: https://www.canr.msu.edu/nativeplants/plant_facts/local_info/south_lower_peninsula

Smart Gardening tip sheets may also help you with your new landscape. https://www.canr.msu.edu/home_gardening/tip_sheets/

You can also consult the book: “Landscaping with Native Plants of Michigan”, by Lynn M. Steiner which is probably available in your local library.

Good luck with your project.

Thank you for contacting Ask Extension.