Native Landscape Design in West Michigan

Low-Maintenance, Beautiful, and Sustainable Gardens Inspired by Nature

Transform Your West Michigan Property with Native Plant Landscape Design

Are you dreaming of a vibrant, low-maintenance outdoor space that supports local wildlife and reflects the natural beauty of West Michigan? At Lake Effect Garden & Design, we specialize in native landscape design that thrives in the diverse soils and microclimates of the region—from sandy lakeshore lots to rich forest edges just a few miles inland.

Led by native plant enthusiast and designer John Clese, our landscapes combine art, ecology, and functionality. Whether you're seeking a pollinator-friendly garden, a lush native meadow, or a rain garden designed for drainage and resilience, we’ll bring your vision to life using plants that belong here.

Why Choose Native Gardens in West Michigan?

Low Maintenance: Once established, native gardens require significantly less watering, fertilizing, and weeding.
Wildlife-Friendly: Native plants attract bees, butterflies, hummingbirds, and other beneficial species.
Seasonal Beauty: From spring blooms to winter seed heads, native gardens provide visual interest year-round.
Adapted to Michigan Soils: Our region includes clay, sand, and loam—native species are best suited to thrive without chemical inputs.
Eco-Friendly: Reduce water usage, prevent erosion, and avoid harmful pesticides.

West Michigan offers a rich variety of natural conditions—from dune grasses to wetlands—and we design gardens that respond to each site's specific character. Here's why native gardens are perfect for this region:

“Natives are a plant type, not a design style. You can have a bold, formal garden—or a meadowy, naturalistic retreat—all with native plants.”
— John Clese, Owner & Designer

Our Native Landscape Design Services in West Michigan

At Lake Effect Garden & Design, we take a custom, client-centered approach to every project. From urban hell strips to sprawling meadows, we design with intention, artistry, and ecological integrity.

Lake Effect Garden & Design by John Clese Step 1 in Planning Process - Site Assessment

Native Garden Design & Installation

We’ll assess your site, understand your vision, and craft a landscape that reflects your goals using plants indigenous to Michigan. We support in replacing your lawn or enhancing an existing garden.

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Native Meadows & Prairie Gardens

Perfect for larger properties or clients seeking naturalistic beauty with minimal upkeep. We design meadows that evolve with the seasons and require only occasional mowing.

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A wildlife-friendly native garden including native joe pye weed by Lake Effect Garden & De

Rain Gardens & Wetland Plantings

Rainy corner in your yard? We specialize in building gardens that manage stormwater naturally with deep-rooted plants like Joe Pye Weed and Common Boneset. Check out our videos to learn more.

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Native Plants We Love in West Michigan

From sun to shade, dry to wet, here are a few of our go-to native species:

Purple Coneflower (Echinacea purpurea) – For vibrant pollinator color
Butterfly Weed (Asclepias tuberosa) – A magnet for monarchs
Sneezeweed (Helenium autumnale) – Fall color and bee support
Rattlesnake Master (Eryngium yuccifolium) – Striking texture and structure
Woolgrass (Scirpus cyperinus) – Great for wet areas with architectural flair

What Makes Us Different?

Site-Specific Planting: We understand the microclimates and soils unique to West Michigan.
Sustainability First: Our gardens reduce your environmental impact and support local ecosystems.
3D Landscape Design: See your future garden before we ever plant a flower.
A Passion for Natives: Our founder’s journey from Maryland to Michigan is rooted in decades of love for naturalistic landscapes.

Transform your outdoor space with Lake Effect Garden & Design's landscape design services.

Serving All of West Michigan

From Saugatuck to Charlevoix, we serve communities across the West Michigan shoreline and inland. Whether you're in Holland, South Haven, Grand Haven, Muskegon, or Traverse City, we can bring native beauty to your home.

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Ready to turn your yard into a stunning, sustainable landscape with native plants? Whether you're interested in a lush backyard garden or a broad native meadow, we’re here to help.