Wildflower Seed

The North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT) has issued an Invitation for Bid (IFB) for wildflower seed procurement, specifically seeking 1,320 PLS pounds of Cosmos bipinnatus 'Sensation Mix' and 1,140 PLS pounds of Sulphur Cosmos (Debeaded), to be packaged in 10-pound bags. The solicitation covers the department's 2025 planting requirements, with seeds mandated to be from the previous production season, grown in the continental United States, and meeting strict quality standards. Minimum germination rates of 65% are required for both seed varieties, with seed purity standards set at 98% for most species and 95% for certain varieties. Delivery is required within 30 days of purchase order receipt, with an anticipated delivery window of March 24-28, 2025, to the DOT Central Inventory Warehouse in Raleigh. Bid submissions are due on March 21, 2025, at 2:00 PM ET, with all prospective bidders required to submit questions by March 11, 2025. The contract term is six months from execution date, with an option to renew for an additional six months. Seeds must be packaged in heavy-duty poly-mesh, cotton blend, or vacuum-packed bags, with proper labeling and seed tags sewn on, and will be subject to inspection by the North Carolina Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services upon delivery.

The IFB encourages participation from Historically Underutilized Businesses (HUB), with a specific goal of 10% utilization across the procurement. Bidders must ensure their seeds are packaged with comprehensive documentation, including seed tags that provide detailed information about seed origin, purity, and germination rates. While specific award values are not explicitly stated, the procurement appears to be a targeted acquisition for the department's landscaping and roadside beautification efforts. The solicitation covers jurisdictions within Wake County and Teachey Town, suggesting a localized but potentially significant contract opportunity. Vendors must demonstrate compliance with stringent seed quality requirements, including documentation of seed production, purity standards, and germination rates. The procurement process emphasizes transparency, quality control, and opportunities for diverse business participation, with a focus on supporting local and underutilized business enterprises in the state's contracting ecosystem.