Hello Cathleen,

We have the same name!  Welcome to Michigan and I hope you have loads of fun learning about gardening in Michigan, which as you know is quite different than CA!  If you are really into gardening and want to learn a lot, you might even want to consider signing up for the Master Gardener program with MSU through their local office on Ball St NE.  

In any event, I would highly recommend that you visit the  MSU.edu website where you will find an overwhelming amount of information on landscaping best practices, native plants, soil health, gardening, pruning, and turf care, to name a few.  Below are a few examples....

https://www.canr.msu.edu/home_gardening/trees-shrubs/

https://www.canr.msu.edu/news/tips_on_tree_and_shrub_pruning

I would also recommend that you do a soil test through MSU.  The is a great way to understand your specific site and what type of soil you are working with, because that of course affects the different types of plants, shrubs and trees that will do well for you. It is very easy to do and the instructions come with the packet for $ 26.00.  All the instructions are here below.

https://spartanspiritshop.msu.edu/products/soil-test-mailer

As for recommendations for specific landscapers and garden centers, we are not permitted to provide specific shoutouts, if you will. You will however find lots of great companies in the area and I would ask your neighbors or others you meet.  I will say that if you look at the list of top 10 nurseries and garden centers in Grand Rapids area on YELP, that I shop at every single one those on the list and love them all. 

Also, The Lawn and Garden Show is coming up at the DeVos Convention Center in late February and it is great resource for finding all sorts of landscapers and anything and everything related to the great outdoors, plus it is a beautiful show with flowers and trees galore.  The dates are February 26 through March 1. 

Happy Gardening!  We are all looking forward to spring and getting back outdoors again!  

If you have specific questions in the future, please don't hesitate to contact us again.

All the best

Kathleen