Create a wildflower patch
Wildflowers are not only beautiful to look at, but the mini ecosystem they create is enormously beneficial for the pollinators that visit our gardens. Using Yellow Rattle seeds can give your wildflower patch the best start
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Using Yellow Rattle
Often referred to as the ‘meadow maker’, Yellow Rattle suppresses grass growth with its hemiparasitic nature, allowing the wildflowers to flourish.
Choose your location
Wildflower will do best in your most sunny spot. The aim is to create a self sustaining plot which flowers year after year, attracting regular visits from your pollinator friends
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Prepare the space
Cut all the existing growth right down to soil level. Scarify the ground with a rake, scratching up as much of the existing plant matter as possible, then dispose of it. The ground should look rough and ready, with lots of loose soil for the seeds to catch on to.
Sow the seeds
Sow Yellow Rattle anytime up to early December. Shake the seeds so they fall a good distance away from each other, keeping in mind each plant will be around 3 inches wide. This is the time to sow any other wildflower seeds you have. Rake over the top to ensure the seeds have good contact with the soil.
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Wait patiently
Seeds will naturally cold stratify over the winter months which will activate germination in late February to March. They will grow until they flower their buttery yellow flowers in June. When they set seed, shake the seed pod and you'll understand where the name comes from!