Monty Don explains how to encourage growth of wildflowers
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According to experts at Bunches, once sown, wildflowers tend to bloom around 60 to 80 days later, and with many varieties of grasses, plants, and perennials, they can be a fantastic addition to any sized garden. They are also great habitats for wildlife and crucial for pollinators including bees. The team of expert florists have shared how to sow seeds for “success” in the garden.
Dani Turner, customer experience director at Bunches, told Express.co.uk: “Flourishing gardens rich in wildflowers are perfect for attracting bees, butterflies and other pollinators. Not only does this help support several important ecosystems, but also makes your garden look unique and beautiful.
“The most attractive way to grow wildflowers is by planting a meadow or adding to your lawn, as this is how they grow naturally, but they can also be grouped in beds and borders for a more formal look.
“Adding in a section for wildflowers is a great way to give local wildlife more variety and help the pollination process.”
Before beginning to plant, preparing the bed is crucial to the success of the garden. While they can grow virtually anywhere, they are better at growing in certain conditions.
Gardeners should read the back of the packet to find out which spot in the garden that variety prefers.
Bunches experts added: “Similarly, check the type of soil you already have (sandy, clay or normal) and match your seed type to this before you start sowing.
“Producing a wild meadow look at home is slightly different than the usual process, as wildflowers actually grow better in poorer soil conditions.
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“If you have been adding lots of fertilisers to your garden over the years, we recommend removing the first three layers of soil (five centimetres to 10 centimetres) before sowing your seeds. This will help reduce the existing nutrients and allow for better wildflower growth.”
How to plant wildflowers
1. Firstly, remove all existing grass, plants, flora and weeds for the most successful chance of germination. Anything already growing can restrict the growth of wildflower seeds.
2. The experts added: “Turn the soil over and firm it down before raking evenly to create a level seed bed. Sow the wildflower seeds (either by hand or with a seed spreader) by scattering thinly or in rows if using a seedbed. Try to space the seeds out evenly.
3. “Cover the area with netting to protect from birds and pests such as slugs and snails. Water thoroughly and ensure the soil is kept moist during hot, dry weather.”
Common pitfalls with seed sowing
Mistakes can happen when it comes to seed sowing, especially if you are new to gardening. One common mistake often made is sowing the seeds too deep.
It’ll often state on the packet of seeds how deep they should be sown. Bunches experts added: “Sowing seeds too densely is another common pitfall, so ensure seeds are evenly distributed to prevent competition for light and growing space.
“How frequently you should water your garden is also a delicate process. People often make the mistake of overwatering which can cause your seeds to drown or rot – the soil should be moist, not wet.
“The best way to check is by touching the soil with your finger twice a day and if the surface soil feels dry, it needs water.
“Finally, it’s important to protect your seeds from pests and birds while they are germinating. Netting over your seeded area works well if you’re sowing on the surface of the soil.
“Or you can cut off the tops of plastic bottles and put these on top of your seedlings, to prevent snails and slugs from getting to them.”
After preparing the soil, the experts recommended allowing it to settle for up to six weeks. This gives it the best possible chance of flowers growing successfully as the soil is fully ready.
Soaking larger seeds before sowing can also help to make the germination process quicker. The experts said they should be planted immediately after sowing in order to prevent them drying out.
Bunches experts noted: “The effort you put into the planting process is worth it when your flowers continue to reseed themselves, bringing colour and life to your garden year after year.”
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