There are a huge number of wildflower species native to the UK. Wildflowers can be used anywhere, in parks, on road verges, living roofs, back gardens, front gardens and golf courses.
The only requirements for planting wildflowers are sunlight and soil type. Most of the meadow type wildflowers like sunshine – as much of it as they can get. There are some shade tolerant wildflowers but even these will not tolerate deep shade.
Soil type is important. As gardeners we have been conditioned to improve soil at every opportunity. Digging in compost, adding mulch and using fertiliser are all part of the gardening year. However, wildflowers want depleted soil; really poor quality with very few nutrients.
So, when you are looking for the seeds and plants to create your summer wildflower display, think very hard about the soil in your garden and take steps to reduce its fertility.
How to create a summer wildflower display
Choosing wildflowers rather than roses or summer bedding makes for low maintenance gardening.
Meadowmat is great for establishing wildflowers. It does have some grasses in the seed but by installing onto low nutrient soil, the grasses won’t be able to take over.
Here’s a wish list for wildflower properties
- Long flowering period
- Bright summer flowers
- Pollinator friendly
- Resistant to pests or diseases
- Repeat flowering if possible
- Happy in dryish soil
- Copes with full sun for half the day
Each type of Meadowmat has a different seed mix. From “traditional”, “birds and bees” and "cottage garden".
When to plant Meadowmat for a summer display
Meadowmat can be installed at any time of year. However, if you are planning a summer wildflower display, make sure your Meadowmat is planted before the end of March. That way the plants will have a chance to root in and get really well established before the flowering season.
