Acquiring Wildflower Bulbs

Many wildflower bulbs, including some of the lesser-known varieties, can be obtained through nurseries throughout the country and across the globe. While the majority of these suppliers propagate their own plants, there may still be some who sell wildflower bulbs that have been collected from the wild. However, collecting these plants from the wild not only takes away from the natural beauty of their native environments, but can actually lead to their extinction through over collecting. In fact, there are many wildflower bulbs that are currently considered to be endangered, such as Trilliums and Lady's Slipper orchids. Woodland plants should never be dug up from existing sites, doing so is illegal and can get you into trouble with the law.

So how can you tell if you're receiving wildflower bulbs from reputable suppliers or if they've been harvested from the wild? First, you should be aware that, like it or not, plant nurseries can be permitted to 'house' wild-collected plants for up to two years, at which time they can be sold as 'nursery-grown.' A reputable nursery, on the other hand, will not take part in this practice. Instead, these suppliers generally specialize in growing and propagating their own wildflowers from seed, with many of them specializing in only a particular kind. You should always read plant labels or descriptions carefully to make sure it specifies whether or not the plant in question has been 'nursery-grown' or nursery-propagated.' There is a difference. Of course, some suppliers may not even list this; however, trustworthy ones will. If not, it doesn't hurt to ask.

You should also perform some research beforehand. What types of wildflower bulbs are offered? Do they have good customer ratings? How long have they been in business? Do they grow their own plants or acquire them elsewhere from other suppliers? Also, be wary of nurseries with large quantities being offered at huge discounts. This can be a red flag signaling that the bulbs have been harvested from the wild. Some of the most commonly wild-collected wildflower bulbs include woodland species such as orchids, wild gingers, trilliums, and native lilies. Wildflower bulbs shouldn't be any less then any other type of bulb. In fact, rare or hard-to-find wildflower bulbs may even cost you more.

Don't be fooled by deceptive bulb suppliers. Do your homework beforehand and only buy plants from reputable nurseries who can guarantee that their plants or bulbs have been legitimately grown and not dug up from the wild.