Our native wildflowers are some of the most pervasive plants we have. All parts of North America have their own native species, with plant names often reflecting the location or environments where they are found. Although they grow naturally in fields, woods, by roadsides, and along streambeds, they are no less beautiful when grown in beds, borders or woodland gardens around your home.

Wildflowers should NEVER be collected from the wild. This once acceptable practice has led to many species now being in danger of disappearing from the wild, and is also ‘against the law’ in many states. Buy your plants from reputable growers that propagate their own stock, that way you know, they are not poaching them from the wild.

The problem for the home gardener is that many of our wildflowers will only grow well in their native habitats, in soils they are accustomed to, and with the right amount of sunlight, rain, heat and cold. The better you can replicate their native environment around your home, the greater your chances are that they will thrive and flourish.

One of the best and easiest things that you can do is leave... the leaves...on your wildflower beds. By removing the leaves, you are depleting the natural nutrient cycle. As the fallen leaves and rotting wood break down into the spongy "woodsy" soil that your plants require, it also provides their nutrients. Oak leaves and pine needles are best.

Try to select plants that are naturally adapted to your soil type, climate and region of the country. Wildflowers are generally self-sufficient, and don't need all the care and attention that many other flowering plants require. Remember they flourish in the wild on their own, without the help from anyone.

But that doesn't mean that you should just plant them and forget about them. Your plants will be healthier if you give them some normal garden maintenance, such as an occasional weeding, mulching, cutting back of dead foliage, or a drink of water in dry spells.

If you need to move or transplant any of your established wildflowers, it is best to wait until they are dormant. They should be replanted immediately if possible, and no more than 2 days after digging them up. A cool-cloudy day, or early evening is best to protect plants from the hot, mid-day sun.

Early spring bloomers respond best when they are moved in the fall, after they have finished flowering and growth has stopped for the year. Plants that flower in late summer or fall should be transplanted in the early spring, so they have time to adjust before they bloom. Plants that die down early and seem to disappear after flowering, can be uprooted when their foliage turns yellow.