FDOT Wildflower Program - Florida Wildflower Foundation (2024)

FAQs

How do I get free wildflower seeds? ›

Feed a Bee

The program has partnered with organizations and communities to help pollinators since 2015 by focusing on planting forage across the U.S. While supplies last, you can request a free packet of native wildflower mix from the organization by filling out this form on its website.

The wildflower seeds will have a hard time germinating and may not be able to access the water and sunlight that they need to grow. If there is no vegetation in the space where you plan on growing wildflowers, your chances of success may be a bit better if you simply toss the seeds onto the ground.

Picking a flower reduces the ability of a population of wildflowers to sustain itself. It's the law. Picking the flowers of any endangered or threatened species is illegal in Florida (Florida Statute 581.185). Don't be a hazard.

If it's a smaller area, you can simply spread the seed by hand. After spreading the seed, compress the seed into the soil. The better seed-to-soil contact, the better chance of germination.

This method is particularly helpful if you're just starting out with gardening. Try searching for a local seed library to find one near you. The Seed Library Social Network may be a good starting point. Its website includes a map with all the libraries that support borrowing seeds.

1 lb covers 1,000 - 2,000 sq. ft.

If possible, give your seeds a thorough, gentle soaking. (See What To Expect below for more watering tips.) Leave seeds uncovered. Unlike vegetable seeds, tiny wildflower seeds require light to germinate.

We don't recommend just throwing the seed out in the field or into the grass; anyone who's tried scattering seed without removing other plants has been sorely disappointed when their wildflowers don't come up. Why is soil preparation important?

If you live in an area with minimal or no winter frosts (parts of California, Florida, southern Texas or parts of the South West) you can grow wildflowers any time, however, the hottest time of the year is not recommended. It is best to take advantage of the rains and plant in the late fall when the rain begins.

Coreopsis : Florida's state wildflower

In 1991, the genus Coreopsis (Tickseed) was designated as Florida's Official State Wildflower in recognition of the colorful flowers used extensively in Florida's roadside plantings and highway beautification programs. See Coreopsis along Florida's roadsides.

Are Florida wildflowers protected? ›

Through regulation by the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS), Florida protects those plant species native to the state that are endangered, threatened or commercially exploited.

Select spring wildflowers that will grow and bloom during the no mow time period and can tolerate being mowed the rest of the year. Some species that I have seen success with include violas, lyre-leaved sage, oakleaf fleabane, elephants foot, white clover, spiderwort, and pony's foot.

Weeds and Competing Species:

Weeds can infiltrate the meadow and compete with wildflowers for resources. Regular maintenance, including weed removal and occasional mowing, is necessary to manage unwanted plant species.

Seeds must be kept moist during the fragile stage when they swell with water until the time when new little roots have grown deep enough to find soil moisture. Important: do NOT let the seeds dry out! This may require watering 2 to 4 times each day.

It's also important to note that seeds shouldn't be covered with soil. Many wildflower seeds require sunlight exposure to germinate, and covering your seeds with soil can significantly reduce germination rates.

Seeds should be collected just before or as the pod turns brown and dries and before it dehisces. The pods should be dried in single layers spread thinly on canvas cloths, screens or trays elevated from the ground. Curing on the pod may take longer for species other than legumes.

Aim for the rainy seasons for best seed germination and growth. For Zone 10, which includes Southern California and coastal regions, fall planting is preferred, but the mild climate allows for a broader planting window throughout the year (some gardners can plant as late as November and December!).

The answer varies depending on the type of seed and the storage conditions. Some wildflower seeds can last up to five years, while others may only last for one or two. The key to preserving their viability is proper storage. Seeds should be kept in a cool, dry place and protected from moisture and sunlight.