With few exceptions wildflowers are now part of any landscaping project on the Federal-aid highway system. Most States already have some sort of native plant growth program involving highways, following the lead of Texas, which began its highway beautification with wildflowers in 1927. Reduced maintenance costs also are part of the benefits from wildflowers along roads.
Many native plants are highly resistant to drought.
Texas reported saving millions of dollars by substituting flowers for roadside weeds. Texas activists helped inspire the National Council of State Garden Clubs, which launched its Operation Wildflower project in 1973. Such projects may not only open up new markets for producers of wildflowers seed but also stimulate greater demand for wildflower plants around homes. They come in many shapes, sizes and colors and grow everywhere. Most are annuals, but many are biennials or perennials.