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Native Seed Mix for Residential Retention Basin - Grand Traverse County #929210

Asked April 22, 2026, 10:42 AM EDT

Good Morning - I'm a homeowner in Grand Traverse County and am in the process of establishing a natural area within a stormwater retention basin on my property. The basin sits on just over an acre of new construction land with mostly bare soil (photos attached), and I am hoping to create a low maintenance, ecologically appropriate area that will stabilize the slopes and manage runoff. (Although, even in the recent heavy rain, the basin was dry within hours.) I know everyone is crazy for wildflower mixes these days, but I've heard that's not ideal. So I was hoping you could help by recommending a native seed mix and where I might purchase it? I plan to add native trees and shrubs later, but would like to establish a base first. Thank you so much for your time. I'm happy to provide any additional details about the site if that would be helpful. Thank you, Liz

Grand Traverse County Michigan

Expert Response

Hello,

This sounds like an exciting project.

When designing a garden or landscape design, there are several factors to consider. Attached is an article which, while it does not specifically refer to a water retention area, does give you an overview of considerations to be taken into account when beginning a new design.

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

A soil test is necessary to establish what plants will work on the site. To obtain a soil testing kit, go to: https://homesoiltest.msu.edu/get-started

There are many organizations that describe wildflowers, such as the Michigan Wildflower Association: https://wildflowersmich.org/why-native/

And here: https://www.canr.msu.edu/nativeplants/plant_facts/

This site describes the type of conditions in which the plants will thrive: http://nativeplant.com/plants/search/input

There book ‘Landscaping with Native Plants of Michigan’ by Lynn M. Steiner will give you information about planting in your area.

There are wildflower sellers listed on the internet who are experts in the type of plant that would suit your site.

Thank you for contacting Ask Extension.


An Ask Extension Expert Replied April 24, 2026, 10:18 AM EDT

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