Author: AK

Having a wonderful time exploring tangents life throws at me.
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Michigan Wetland Plants

Western Michigan falls within USDA Hardiness Zones 5a to 6a, which means we have a moderately cool climate with cold winters.

Here are some native wetland plants suitable for our region:

Willow Species (Salix spp.)

Various willow species are well-adapted to wetland conditions.
They provide habitat, stabilize soil, and some have attractive weeping forms.


Pickerelweed (Pontederia cordata)

This perennial plant has attractive spikes of blue-purple flowers and thrives in wetland areas.

Blue Flag Iris (Iris versicolor)

Known for its stunning blue-purple flowers, this iris species is well-suited for wet soils and adds a touch of elegance to wetland areas.

Swamp Milkweed (Asclepias incarnata)

A great choice for attracting butterflies, swamp milkweed produces clusters of pink to mauve flowers and thrives in moist conditions.

Cardinal Flower (Lobelia cardinalis)

With its striking red flowers, cardinal flower adds a vibrant splash
of color to wetland areas and attracts hummingbirds.

Joe Pye Weed (Eutrochium maculatum)

This tall, native perennial has clusters of pink to purplish flowers and provides nectar for butterflies and other pollinators.

Bluejoint Grass (Calamagrostis canadensis)

A native grass that is well-suited for wetland conditions,
providing habitat and stabilization for the soil.

Sweet Flag (Acorus calamus)

This aromatic plant is often found in wetlands and has grass-like foliage.
It can tolerate a variety of wet soil conditions.

Red Twig Dogwood (Cornus sericea)

Besides its attractive red stems, this shrub provides habitat and adds visual interest to wetland areas.

Elderberry (Sambucus canadensis)

A shrub with clusters of white flowers and later dark purple berries,
elderberry is beneficial for wildlife and can tolerate wet soils.

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Dutch Bucket Gardening


Dutch Bucket Gardening, also known as Bato Bucket Gardening, is a hydroponic growing method used for cultivating plants, particularly vegetables like tomatoes, peppers, and cucumbers. The system typically consists of individual containers or buckets filled with a growing medium, such as perlite or coconut coir, where plants are grown using a nutrient-rich water solution.

Here’s a basic overview of how Dutch Bucket Gardening works:

  1. Buckets/Containers: Each plant is placed in a separate container or bucket filled with a growing medium. These buckets usually have a reservoir at the bottom to hold the nutrient solution.
  2. Growing Medium: Instead of soil, a soilless growing medium like perlite, coconut coir, or a mix of these materials is used. This provides support for the plant roots and allows for good aeration.
  3. Nutrient Solution: Plants receive their nutrients through a continuous flow or periodic flooding of a nutrient-rich water solution. The nutrient solution contains essential minerals required for plant growth.
  4. Watering System: A drip irrigation system or a similar mechanism is commonly used to deliver the nutrient solution to each bucket. This ensures that plants receive a consistent and controlled supply of water and nutrients.
  5. Monitoring and Control: The system often includes monitoring devices such as pH and electrical conductivity (EC) meters to ensure that the nutrient levels are appropriate for plant growth.

Dutch Bucket Gardening is known for its efficiency in water and nutrient usage, as well as its suitability for growing a variety of crops in a controlled environment. It’s commonly used in greenhouse settings and allows for better control over growing conditions, making it popular among hydroponic enthusiasts and commercial growers.

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Herb Spiral

Grow lots of herbs in a small space!

Credit: Permaculture Research Institute

A Herb Spiral is a vertical garden design that consists of a raised, spiraling structure with various planting levels. The spiral shape allows for different microclimates, enabling a variety of herbs to be grown in a compact space. Herbs with similar water and sunlight needs are planted in corresponding areas of the spiral, making it an efficient and visually appealing way to cultivate a diverse herb garden.

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Keyhole Gardens

Credit: Insteading.com

A keyhole garden is a raised garden bed with a central composting basket, shaped like a keyhole when viewed from above. It’s designed to maximize growing space and conserve water, often used in areas with limited resources. The central compost basket provides nutrients to the surrounding soil, promoting sustainable and efficient gardening.

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Goat Barn Placement in Wooded Setting

Ashington Having a Nibble

  1. Sunlight and Ventilation:
    • Choose a location that allows plenty of sunlight to reach the barn. This helps with natural lighting and warmth.
    • Ensure good ventilation by placing the barn in a way that prevailing winds can pass through, helping to keep the air fresh and reduce moisture.
  2. Terrain and Drainage:
    • Select a site with well-drained soil to prevent waterlogging. Goats are susceptible to hoof problems, so a well-drained area helps maintain good hoof health.
    • Avoid low-lying areas prone to flooding, especially during heavy rain.
  3. Accessibility:
    • Ensure easy access for both goats and caretakers. A flat or gently sloping terrain is preferable for ease of movement.
    • Consider proximity to a water source for both the goats and barn cleaning.
  4. Protection from Predators:
    • Position the barn in a way that provides some natural protection from predators. Clear away dense underbrush and ensure good visibility for the goats and caretakers.
    • Consider using fencing or other predator deterrents as an additional layer of protection.
  5. Forage Availability:
    • If possible, place the barn in an area where there is access to good forage for the goats. This can help supplement their diet and reduce the need for additional feeding.
  6. Space for Expansion:
    • Plan for future expansion if you anticipate an increase in the size of your goat herd. Ensure there is enough space for additional barns or grazing areas.
  7. Environmental Impact:
    • Minimize the impact on the surrounding environment. Avoid clearing large areas of trees unnecessarily, and integrate the barn into the natural landscape.
  8. Zoning and Regulations:
    • Check local zoning regulations and permits before constructing the barn to ensure compliance with local laws.