Knowledgebase

Where to purchase native milkweed? #923396

Asked January 07, 2026, 11:09 AM EST

Hello! I live in Concord, and I have been reading Nature's Best Hope. I'm wondering where you recommend a homeowner purchase local pollinagtors, such as milkweed, and other local keystone species of shrubs and trees? I am new to homeownership and to encouraging local insect populations, and I think the plants I purchased from my local nursery last year are not native. Thanks for any suggestions you have as I work to turn my lawn into a place where more wildlife can thrive!

Merrimack County New Hampshire

Expert Response

Dear Molly lunn Owen

Thank you for contacting the UNH Extension Infoline on January 7, 2026.

We appreciate your commitment to encouraging native plants and supporting our local ecosystem. Shifting toward native plantings and pollinator habitats is an excellent way for homeowners to restore the natural environment and provide essential resources for local wildlife.

To help you create your ideal garden environment, I have included several resources below:

  • UNH Extension: Planting for Pollinators – A guide to the best plants for New Hampshire gardens.
  • Native Plants for New England Landscapes – Detailed information on selecting species that thrive in our climate.
  • Pollinator Garden Certification – Learn how to have your garden officially recognized by the UNH Extension.

https://www.nhdfl.dncr.nh.gov/natural-heritage/native-plants

https://extension.unh.edu/resource/recommended-flowering-plants-and-groundcovers-wildlife-0

https://www.wildlife.nh.gov/sites/g/files/ehbemt746/files/inline-documents/sonh/native-plant-list.pdf

https://extension.unh.edu/sites/default/files/migrated_unmanaged_files/Resource005899_Rep8265.pdf

https://extension.unh.edu/resource/pollinator-plants-northern-new-england-gardens-fact-sheet

New Hampshire state forest nursery order seedling on line :

https://www.nhdfl.dncr.nh.gov/forest-management/state-forest-nursery

Top Picks for NH Native Perennials:

  • For Pollinators: Butterfly Weed, Swamp Milkweed (Asclepias incarnata), Wild Bergamot, Bee Balm (Monarda), and Penstemon (Beardtongue).
  • For Color: Cardinal Flower (red), Blue Flag Iris (Iris versicolor), Woodland Phlox (Phlox divaricata), and Goldenrods (yellow).
  • For Shade/Moisture: Black Cohosh (Actaea), Wild Ginger, and various ferns (check local resources).
  • For Dry/Sunny Spots: Butterfly Weed, Showy Goldenrod, and Ornamental Onion (Allium).

Key Resources for NH Natives:

  • University of New Hampshire (UNH) Extension: Offers guides for pollinators, groundcovers, and native plants, emphasizing species that benefit local ecosystems.
  • NH Natural Heritage Bureau: A source for detailed information on rare and native plants for conservation efforts.
  • City of Manchester, NH: Provides lists of native shrubs and trees for wildlife and landscapes.


We are committed to helping you resolve this issue. Please feel free to reach out with any further questions as you gather more information.

Best regards,

Haim
Master Gardener Volunteer
The UNH Extension Infoline Team


Thank you for contacting the info line, a service of UNH Cooperative Extension  Replied January 08, 2026, 10:15 AM EST

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