The number of areas where green-winged orchids grows dropped steeply in the 20th century due to the plant's extreme sensitivity to human influences. It is only found in several areas in the wadden region, such as Texel and Terschelling, and sporadically in South Limburg, on Schouwen-Duiveland and Goeree.

After studying the various vegetations where this orchid still grows in the Netherlands, researchers concluded that special management is required in order to protect this rare orchid. Green-winged orchids only survive nowadays on hay fields that are extensively managed. The fields are mowed and the vegetation is kept open by grazing in late summer, allowing the seeds to germinate. Aspects that help prevent other plants from dominating give green-winged orchids a greater chance to prosper. Examples are calcium-rich soils or brackish soils with a high water table in the winter.