What Are The Benefits of Wildflowers?

Wildflowers aren’t just beautiful to look at, they play an important role in our ecosystems. From soil health to pollination, these little plants have a big impact, and one we can help protect and preserve. 

They Provide Habitat for Pollinators 

Pollinators don’t just support ecosystems, they also help provide our food. According to the Natural Resources Conservation Service, around 35 percent of the world’s food crops depend on pollinators to reproduce. 

They Are Food For Small Mammals

Animals like the American Pika depend on wildflowers as a food source. The insects that are attracted to the plants also provide an important source of food for many different animals. 

They Hold Nutrients in the Soil

The roots of wildflowers help to stabilize the soil and hold on to nutrients that might otherwise be washed away in the rain. Their presence can improve soil health, prevent erosion, and improve water quality. 

So How Do We Protect Them?

Wildflowers generally have a short growing season and are quite fragile. They can be easily damaged by humans. Hiking off trail, picking flowers, or camping on vegetation could kill these crucial species. Have a garden? Planting native wildflowers can benefit your backyard ecosystem. By practicing Leave No Trace, we can help wildflowers continue to play their role. 

By the Subaru/Leave No Trace Teams. For over 20 years these teams have provided tangible solutions to serious issues facing our outside space and reach over 15 million people every year. Learn more about the important work of our mobile education teams.  Proud partners of this program include Subaru of America, REI, Eagles Nest Outfitters, Thule, Fjällräven, The Coleman Company and Klean Kanteen.