We love wild flowers for their wildlife value and effortless beauty. Native species support bees, butterflies and hoverflies. In Devon a mix of coastal and inland species can suit different soils and exposures. Wild flowers often need less watering and fewer interventions once established. They also offer seasonal interest and a sense of place that fits well in traditional and modern gardens.
Pick the right seed mix
We select seed mixes that are suited to our local conditions. Choose native meadow mixes for a meadow effect and nectar-rich mixes for pollinators in smaller areas. For shady spots pick a shade-tolerant mix. If the garden has particularly free-draining or heavy clay soils choose species lists that match those conditions. Avoid high fertility seed mixes that favour vigorous grasses over delicate wild flowers.
Prepare the ground
Good site preparation gives wild flowers the best chance. Where turf is present we remove it or cut and rake the top layer to reduce competing grasses. For poor or compacted soil we fork and remove perennial weeds. If the soil is very shallow or contaminated we can build raised beds to create a fresh seedbed. Lightly firm the soil so seed makes contact but do not create a hard surface that stops germination.
When and how to sow
We usually sow wild flower seed in autumn or early spring. Autumn sowing benefits from natural winter weather to settle seed. Broadcast seed by hand over the prepared area and rake lightly to cover. For very fine seed mix seed with sand to help even distribution. After sowing we roll or firm the area gently and keep it frost exposed rather than cover with mulch.
Aftercare and management
First-year management is gentle. We keep the area free of aggressive weeds and avoid feeding with high nutrient fertiliser. In late summer once most flowers have finished we make a single cut and remove the arisings to prevent nutrient build-up. Rotational cutting every year or two maintains diversity. Where slugs are an issue we favour biological slug control and manual checks early in the season.
Enhancing biodiversity
We encourage small features like log piles, a shallow water dish and a patch of tussock grass to add habitat. Planting native hedgerow species nearby boosts food sources for insects and birds. Start small with a test patch if the site is uncertain and expand as the mix establishes.
Contact our team for advice.
