“From one small seed, a mighty oak can grow.” says fellow SNRE alum, Stacie Printon. “That’s the story of Wildtype Nursery, founded by SNRE/SEAS alum, Bill Schneider.” When Bill started Wildtype in 1996, he had a vision to grow native plants from seed collected from genetic wild types. What started as a backyard plot with one part-time employee has now grown into a successful operation, sustaining 10 acres of diverse native plant life in Mason, MI.

“My idea was to produce native plants with enough genetic diversity to produce self-sustaining populations; or in other words, to conserve not only the species but the genetic diversity found in the wild population. “ says Bill. He found it required wild collection of seed for native populations that still remain in Michigan.

The success of Wildtype is all thanks to the passion and care of Bill Schneider, Owner and President. Since his graduation from the University of Michigan in 1993, he has dedicated his life to preserving and protecting Michigan’s natural landscape.

Bill celebrates over 20 years of dedicated service. “Over the last 22 years we have made over 10,000 collections of more than 450 native plant species collected from all over the state of Michigan. I believe (or at least hope) this is a worthy endeavor in light of our quickly changing landscape as a result of development, spread of invasive species and climate change.“

“The nursery provides ecological services for public, commercial and residential projects focusing on restoration and preservation of native landscapes,” adds Stacie Printon, “Working with a loyal and motivated team of employees, Wildtype Native Plant Nursery is doing its part in tipping the scales toward a sustainable and healthy planet.”