FAQ's
We have compiled a list of the most frequently asked questions relating to sowing seed and the management of a wildflower meadow:
 Q1. Can I sow the wildflower seed into existing grass? Q2. Can I sow wildflower seeds with grass seed?
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Q1. Can I sow the wildflower seed into existing grass? A. You can but this will end in tears! This is the biggest mistake that can be made when sowing wildflowers and will guarantee little growth if any at all! The existing grass is too strong for the wildflower seeds and they are unable to compete. Q2. Can I sow wildflower seeds with grass seed? A. We do not recommend this purely because the grass seeds will germinate much quicker than the wildflower seeds and they will swamp the wildflower seedlings. This will therefore result in poor growth. Kreye’s Design By Nature can supply a native grass seed which is slower growing than modern grasses, however ultimately it is better to sow 100% wildflower seed. Q3. When can I sow the wildflower seed? A. The seed can be sown at any time of the year although the ideal sowing conditions are between February and October. The key is to avoid the very wet and the very dry periods. Q4. How long will it be before I start to see any growth? A. In most mixtures some species will show signs of growth in the first 2/3 weeks. However some seeds can take up to eight weeks to germinate, and other seedlings will lie dormant until the conditions are suited to them, sometimes months. Q5. When will my meadow flower? A. The first real signs of colour from the annuals in a meadow may appear after 6/8 weeks depending on the mixture and time of sowing. For an instant splash of colour the Cornfield annuals mixture will flower within 6 – 10 weeks of planting and can be sown with other mixtures. The biennials and perennials will flower in the following years. Q6. Can I sow more than one mixture within the same area? A. It is quite common that people will select a combination of seed mixtures to suit their interests (General, Butterfly Attracting, Bird Attracting, Cornfield annuals)
Q7. How do I know which mixture is best suited to my area? A. If you are unsure the General mixture has been designed to be very versatile and will grow in any soil types. However, you can always fill out our online free site survey form and we can then recommend a suitable quantity and mixture of seed.
Q8. I have a large area to sow and can’t clear all of the existing growth? A. The best way to overcome this is to clear small areas within the meadow and sow these. The grass will still need to be kept under control and away from it in its first season allowing the seeds to germinate without too much competition.
Q9. Do I need to add fertiliser to the ground before sowing my wildflower seed? A. No. Wildflowers favour poorer soil.
Q10. Do I have to mow my wildflower meadow in the first year? | |