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"What Do I Really Need? Art and Economy " - My view
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Guild of Natural Science Illustrators, Inc.
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Marians Of The Immaculate Conception
Native
Wildflowers
Carefree Color!
ZONE: Varies
TYPE: Perennial, biennial, or self-sowing annual
SOIL: Usually Fertile, Well Drained
LIGHT: Usually full sun, but there are plants for shade
GROWTH: Usually fast (annuals) or medium for perennials or bi-ennials
When a corner of your yard,
garden, or perhaps a spare acre or two is lacking
color, wildflowers may be the answer! Pictured above is a flower that I have yet
tried to identify, but that comes back year after year. I never planted it, it
just started showing up and beautifying my yard. For me, that means low care,
low cost reliable color. There are hundreds of native wildflowers particular to
different areas of the country, in all shapes and hues. Many have medicinal or
fragrant qualities not found elsewhere. (If looking for medicinal plants, check
with a registered herbalist before using plant parts. Too much of a good thing
can be toxic, even the much beloved Purple Coneflower (Echinacea)!) The key is
to watch what grows naturally in an open area near you, and then incorporate it
into your garden plan. Many companies now specialize in wildflowers or heirloom
plants, so you can start your own from seeds or purchase starter plants from a
nursery carrying local varieties.
Digging up wild plants is not good for a couple of reasons – These are
referred to as “field-collected” plants and they may be protected, not only
by the neighbor’s fence around them, but by law. Also, most wild grown plants
of all species do not transplant
well, and your blooming beauty may end up in
the compost heap. There are so many varieties available by seed catalogs or
nurseries, it is best to start your own and make it an heirloom garden
itself.
Directions on seed packets are usually clear, or ask the local nursery for
cultural information.