What to look for in a mix for a mini wildflower meadow?
TwoWells
Posts: 8
I only need enough for a bit of bare earth I've uncovered of about 12m2. I'm after a native mix which I think would look lovely, be good for insects and birds and won't need mowing!
If I'm allowed to ask for a recommendation of a good mix I'd be grateful if anyone can steer me in the right direction. I'd like it to be colourful and have a bit of "wow" if possible. I know nothing about these mixes however. Is it possible to mix and match some that I've seen online or does that lead to problems? I'm probably overthinking it!
I'm in mid Devon if that makes a difference to what will grow here.
Many thanks for any suggestions. I'll look into them all because I need some colour therapy in a grey February!
All the best
0
Posts
Have you considered meadow mat type thing - pre-seeded turf?
Have a look on Sarah Ravens website, she has different mixes and you will know exactly which flowers are in the mix
TwoWells
A few years ago I had a bare patch of soil in my garden (5m x 2m approx.) which was vacant prior to a complete garden refurbishment .
My wife suggested a wildflower mix for one season , so after a bit of doubt I bought two 'Wildflower Mixes' from , of all places Home Bargains ! They come in boxes retailing at around £3.99 each .
With dubiety I mixed the lot together and knowingly vastly oversown for the area I just scattered the seed on the bare soil and lightly raked in . I don't normally grow plants like these , being a hardy perennial enthusiast .
Within a few days in the Spring seedlings were showing , and through the following Summer we were rewarded with an incredibly colourful display . Larkspur , numerous sp. of Poppies , Love- in-a-mist , Snapdragons , Cornflowers of all shades , plus many others too numerous to mention . For just under £8-00 we were impressed to say the least . Just remember to water well during the first few weeks !
It was a bonus to the local bees and hoverflies throughout that year , and I can thoroughly recommend giving it a go !
Yes, do keep watering.
It's certainly good to know beforehand what's in the mix , but part of the excitement for us that year was the 'not knowing' . Seemed like every day something new appeared !
The only negative side to plants like these is the fact that most are 'over' by August/September , by which time they're looking a bit tired to say the least .
You could add some ox eye daisies into the mix. Mine would carry on until Christmas.
Many thanks for all the helpful replies.
I ordered some Jewel Cut Flower Meadow Mix today and I can't wait to get it planted. I have to wait until March for that but that gives lots of chance to prepare the ground as well as I can.