There are several hundred species of bees native to the British Isles and with many in decline or “at risk”; there has never been better time to give them a helping hand by growing a few native wildflowers. Read more
Wildflowers for Bees
Month: July 2015
Fresh Yellow Rattle now available
We have just received a new harvest of 2015 Yellow Rattle seeds available for immediate dispatch. For more details and ordering information please click here.
Using Yellow Rattle to control grass growth
Yellow Rattle or Hay Rattle (rhinanthus minor) is partly a parasitic species that draws some of its nutrients though the roots of grasses and is frequently used to increase bio diversity in wild flower meadows. Its parasitic nature suppresses the growth rate of grass, which in turn can make conditions more receptive for the establishment of other wildflower species. Used correctly it can reduce grass growth very successfully and once established can often spread to other areas within the meadow.
Advice on Wildflower Bulb Planting
Selecting wildflower bulbs
Native Wildflower bulbs provide a useful and easy way to establish wildflowers in shaded areas and existing grasslands. Generally bulbs fall into 2 categories:
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How to create a Wildflower Meadow
Planning
Before attempting to create a Wildflower meadow, there are a number of factors which should be given due consideration. From the outset it should be fully understood that wildflower meadows do require management and regular cutting is an important part of how to create a wildflower meadow.
How to choose the right wildflower mix
Before sowing any wildflower meadow mixture consideration should always be given to the soil type and situation.
Most soils fall into the category of clay, sandy or loam (midway between sand and clay). Other less frequently encountered soils include acid (e.g. peat) and chalk or limestone. Consideration should also be given to the light levels, which if low may mean a woodland mixture is required. Similarly if the soil is unusually moist, a wet soil or pond edge mix may be needed. By selecting a mixture well matched to the site you will achieve the best long-term results. If there is a great deal of uncertainty to the soil type then select a general-purpose mixture.
We can provide mixtures for all of the above situations both with or without the addition meadow grass.