GARDEN ON THE WILD SIDE

Adding native wildflowers to your landscaping creates a haven for pollinators and other animals. Heidi Fleury, conservation coordinator for Montana’s Lake County Conservation District, shares some tips to help you start a wildflower garden.

Roll Up Your Sleeves

A well-prepared site, free of grass, weeds and other vegetation, is the ultimate foundation for a flourishing flower garden.

Choose a Good Spot

Place your wildflower garden where you will see or walk past it often. Also, access to water for optimal maintenance and care is key.

Do Your Research

Ask your local seed dealer, conservation district or Natural Resources Conservation Service to suggest the best native wildflowers to start from seed. Try to mix six to seven species of flowers so you’ll have blooms all season long.

Stick with it

Establishment is the hardest part! Don’t get discouraged; patience and extra care pay off in the first year. Keep in mind that it may take two years for flowers to get fully established.

Learn more at nrcs.usda.gov.