Quote:
Originally Posted by ronaldhanko
I don't know what state you live in, but this is a protected or endangered plant in some states. I personally do not believe that native plants should ever be dug up and removed - that's why so many of them are now endangered or even extinct, and that's especially true of many native orchids.
|
For one the plant is not listed as endangered or protected in my state.
But don't worry, the only rattle snake orchids I dug up were on private property that the gas company has leased (or bought in one case) in order to build transmission and gathering lines for natural gas - and bringing in lots of heavy machinery to do so. This was more of a rescue mission in my mind because they could care less what plants and wildlife are in their way. So I've been going to the areas in their path to collect any orchids (but all I've found so far are the rattlesnake) and some types of moss and wild flowers.
The ones not in the path of the construction and their vehicles I left alone, and photographed in their natural habitat. I don't take wild orchids out of their environment unless I know they are in danger of being destroyed.
My plan for the plants I have now is to try and grow and propagate them for the next two years. If I have success I want to return the new additions to a safe area of the woods where I found them (and if I manage to grow enough of them - also to a state park close to my house) in order to try and help them flourish in the wild.
It almost feels magical to come across these plants in a dark, shaded forest and I'd like to help make sure they continue to be there for myself, and others to enjoy, in the future.
Hybrid Mode
