The wildflower market has matured over the past ten years, resulting in an expanded usage by Landscape Architects, golf courses, and highway and parks departments. These markets are requesting lower growing mixtures, native and naturalized species, more fall-blooming species and those which attract wildlife.

Low-growing wildflower species and mixtures are in demand because tall mixtures can look unkempt or too wild in suburban and urban settings. Mixtures less than 24 inches in height, however, are well-suited for commercial and residential developments where a more traditional “tamed” look may be appropriate. Mowing in the fall eliminates dead stalks and helps disperse seeds. Very low-growing mixtures, 10 inches or less, do not require fall mowing.

Naturalized species are those that have been introduced into an area and persisted because they are native to regions with similar climates and soil types. Native and naturalized species are excellent choices for permanent plantings where low maintenance is important. Approximately 20,000 species of wildflowers are native or naturalized to the United States, of which only 100-200 species are produced commercially. In addition, some species are grown or collected only in small quantities, making them more expensive. The industry is gradually developing economical methods for producing a broader selection of native and naturalized species at affordable prices.

Regional wildflower mixtures should contain high percentages of both native and naturalized species and be a well-balanced blend of annuals and perennials. Annuals are important as a nurse crop for the slower developing perennials; it is not as important that annuals be native or naturalized to the region. Wildflower seed should meet state standards for germination, have high purity (over 95%) and contain no noxious weed seed.

Many wildflower mixtures available today contain few, if any, fall-blooming species such as Asters and Goldenrods. Asters are famous for their colorful fall display, and graceful Goldenrods add a lovely contrast to the purples, pinks and whites of the Asters. New England Aster (Aster novae-angliae) is a very showy, fall-blooming species that is now being commercially produced. Other attractive late-season bloomers include Autumn Helenium, Black-Eyed Susan and New York Aster.

Butterflies flitting from flower to flower, or birds enjoying nectar or a feast of ripe seeds, add a nice dimension to a garden or meadow environment. Butterflies prefer open, flat flowers that provide a place to rest while feeding. Sun-loving, easy-to-grow examples are Black-Eyed Susan, Indian Blanket, Lance-leaved Coreopsis, Plains Coreopsis, Purple Coneflower, Sweet William Pinks, and Wallflower. Bright orange Butterfly Milkweed and fragrant Dame’s Rocket are other excellent choices for attracting butterflies. Hummingbirds like long, tubular flowers such as Columbine, Gilia, Monarda, and Penstemon. Other birds appreciate the ripe seeds of Aster, Coneflower, Coreopsis, Cornflower, Cosmos, Indian Blanket, and Sunflower.

n summary, as the wildflower market matures, the industry is responding to more specialized requirements by landscapers. Mixtures to attract wildlife are popular. Also in demand are native or naturalized species, fall-blooming species, and low-growing mixtures. Many golf courses are planting wildflowers for visual impact and to reduce maintenance costs.