Nathan Buchanan
Founder & Owner of Wildbud Natives
Nathan grew up on a Fraser Fir farm in Mitchell County and has been listening to plants for as long as he can remember. After studying horticulture through 4-H and briefly in college, he earned degrees in psychology before returning to his roots in 2016 to start Wildbud Natives.
Guided by mentors—both human and botanical—Nathan is drawn to meadows for their resilience, layered structure, and the way they invite people into the life of the landscape. A few of his favorite species include Penstemon smallii, Juncus tenuis, Danthonia compressa, Andropogon ternarius, and Liatris helleri.
The Work We Do
Restore Landscapes; Reconnect People with Nature.
Wildbud Natives is an ecological restoration company dedicated to transforming human spaces into thriving native habitats. We specialize in designing, installing, and nurturing meadows, wetlands, and grasslands—working with nature instead of against it. Every project is guided by deep ecological knowledge and a hands-on approach, ensuring that landscapes don’t just look beautiful, but function as dynamic, self-sustaining ecosystems.
Our Approach
Working at Meadow Pace.
Nature doesn’t rush, and neither do we. Our process is rooted in observation, patience, and respect for ecological succession. We work in thoughtful stages, considering the land’s existing conditions and long-term resilience. By integrating scientific knowledge with intuition, we restore landscapes that invite biodiversity, improve soil health, and support our ecosystem—all while deepening the human connection to wild spaces.
Why It Matters
More Than a Garden—An Alive Habitat
Restoring native habitat isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s about reviving the ecological relationships that sustain life. A well-designed meadow or woodland edge can filter stormwater, prevent erosion, provide critical wildlife habitat, and reconnect fragmented ecosystems. Our work helps shift the way people see their landscapes, turning them into active participants in ecological renewal.
