Ideally
sow in the autumn (August - early October) or late March - end May,
or when conditions dictate. But avoid the hot summer months.
A
few species need cold treatment to germinate but this consideration
is unimportant in practical situations.
Prefer
poor soil of low fertility.
Clear
site of all weeds.
No
fertiliser should be added at any time.
Wild
flowers will NOT survive in agricultural grass mixtures.
Cultivate
to provide a fine weed-free seed bed.
Sow
evenly at 3-5 grammes per square metre (=30 kilos/ha).
If
necessary mix with a carrier (i.e. dry sand or compost) to help sowing.
We suggest proportions of one part seed to four parts sand.
Split
mixture to be sown in two and sow at right angles to each other.
Rake
seed in lightly and firm the soil.
Wildflower
Management Guide
Once established do not spray with any type of weed killer.
During first establishment year cut on a regular basis, every 5 or
6 weeks, from end May - mid September at 2"-3" height and remove cuttings.
This will prevent the grass from over growing the establishing wild flowers.
Once established (in 2nd year) cease cutting at end of May until end
of September to allow wild flower species to develop and flower.
After flowering has finished cut late Summer - early Autumn and remove
vegetation.
At end of season (October time), after last cut, rake or chain harrow
if necessary.
Do not sow seeds on a site if its impossible to mow or maintain. Neglect
is a recipe for failure.
Avoid any animals on the site as they could graze heavily and take
out the heart of the wild flower plants.
N.B. DO NOT EXPECT FLOWERS TO APPEAR IN THE FIRST YEAR.
