BACYARD SECRET – BUYING CULTIVARS IS SOMETIMES RISKY
backyardwildlifeconnection by Terry W.Johnson
When you are shopping for native plants, sometimes you must decide whether to buy a plant that is not a hybrid or a cultivar. Which should you choose?
Although many cultivars often produce larger and more blossoms than those that are not hybrids, sometimes their ability to produce pollen and/or nectar is either lost or lessened during the breeding process. Consequently, if you were planting a native plant for its beauty and ability to supply food for pollinators, you would be better off not buying a cultivar.
However, many cultivars do not lose their ability to produce nectar and pollen. Consequently, if possible, ask a friend or county agent if they know anything about a cultivar you are thinking about buying. You can also check the Internet. Often it can provide you with a wealth of information about the attributes of cultivars.
Transplanting the right plant in your garden can make a big difference to the pollinators that you hope it will benefit and your own satisfaction.
If you know excellent cultivars, please share their names with the rest of us.
