Habitat Creation | Wildflower habitats

Methods for Wildflower sowing and propagation

For Seed mixtures

Choose a sunny site, then ideally scrape off any rich top soil, as it is full of weed seeds which will result in a lush growth that will swamp the wildflowers.Create a fine seedbed in the subsoil and lightly sow the seed (mixing the seed with silver sand helps to spread the seed evenly and mark where you have sown).Rake in thoroughly and firm down to ensure your seeds have good contact with the soil. The seedbed should be protected from any visiting animals.
Keep well watered.
If you do sow in top soil you will have to keep on top of the weeds and thin out the grass periodically.Mow the area at least three times in the first year to a height of about 5cm. Remove the cuttings, as they will increase fertility and swamp out new seedlings. Treat the area as you would a lazy lawn.
In year two flowering will occur. After they have set seed, usually by mid-September cut the area again and remove the cuttings
Continue your management as a late cut in the following years, allowing the wildflowers to set seed before cutting.

For wildflower plugs, habitat plug collections & individual bulbs.

Prepare the ground by removing vegetation in the immediate area of the plants and bury the rootball in the planting hole.
Sand and compost can be added as mulch to protect the plants and prevent drying out.
Do not add fertiliser.
Unless the ground is damp it is advisable to water all new transplants well.