Steps to Save Endangered Plants

Overview

You can help to save endangered plants by growing them in your own yard. Whenever we contribute to increasing the range of plants that are native to our regions, we are helping to save them. When you grow endangered plants in your garden, you will also be helping to teach other people about what they are and why they are endangered. And perhaps you'll persuade them to take some seeds or a cutting to introduce to their own gardens.

Helping to Save Endangered Species

Step 1

Search for endangered plants that are native to your region at nurseries, in seed catalogs and online. Some specialty nurseries carry a selection of endangered plants. Also search for plants in friends' yards from which you can take cuttings.

Step 2

Start your seeds or cuttings according to the type of plant. In general, scatter the seeds of native plants on a flat filled with moist potting soil and then barely cover with more soil. Keep flats in a sunny location if the species requires light for germination. If the plant is a fern or other plant that requires low light, keep your flat in an area that receives only a small amount of filtered sunlight. You will need to do a little research to learn what is appropriate for your plants.

Step 3

Prepare garden beds for your plants when they are large enough to transplant. Most plants favor soil that you enrich with organic compost. Make sure that you plant your endangered plants in the same type of environmental conditions they favor in the wild. Again, a little research will be necessary to learn the appropriate conditions for various plants.

Step 4

Spread the word about endangered plants and your growing project by means of a website or blog. You can set up a gardening blog right here on GardenGuides with no effort.

Step 5

Propagate your plants when they produce seeds, when they are large enough to take cuttings or make root divisions.

Step 6

Hold an endangered plant sale as you would a garage sale, in your front yard. Advertise on your blog and through free sources that might exist through your local newspapers and garden clubs. You might make the acquaintance of others who share your passion for helping to save endangered species.