Gardens will be strategic in saving nature. Planting native species supports  insects, birds and mammals. 

Over the last 100 years alien plants have been brought from other ecosystems  to the United States by the plant ornamental trade. Many have become invasive  and are detrimental to the environment. They use water, nutrients and sunlight  and contribute little to the wildlife. Native fauna have not evolved with the alien plants and  they do not eat them.

Midwest native species include trees such as red maple and black walnut.   Shrubs such as grey dogwood and American Hazelnut as well as common milkweed and black eyes Susan's can be planted.
Bring Home Nature by Douglas W. Tallamy is available in libraries.