How to Plant a Wildflower Garden
If you have a patch of unused garden space, a wildflower garden is a good way to put that space to good use. A wildflower garden will prevent soil erosion and restore habitat for birds, honeybees and butterflies. A wildflower garden requires no fertilizer, little water and minimal weeding, and will provide color and beauty for many years. Plant your wildflower seeds in autumn so the winter moisture will get the seeds off to a good start in spring. Be patient, as your wildflower garden may not reach its full glory for two to three years. Does this Spark an idea?
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Instructions
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Determine the best location for your wildflower garden. Although conditions vary depending on the type of wildflower, most wildflowers do best in well-drained soil and full sunlight. Some wildflowers, such as woodland wildflowers, may require partial shade and damp soil.
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Select the most appropriate wildflowers for your area. Native types of wildflowers are best, as non-native wildflower seeds may not germinate, or may not live beyond the first year. Plant a wildflower mix that will provide flowers of varying color and heights all season. Purchase fresh wildflower seeds from a local dealer.
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Begin site preparations in spring, as preparing the soil properly for wildflowers may require several weeks. Mow grass or other existing vegetation down to a height of 2 to 4 inches.
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Cover the area with large sheets of plastic to kill the vegetation. When the vegetation turns brown, cultivate the soil with a tiller or shovel, working the soil just deep enough to remove the roots. Don't cultivate too deeply, as you will awaken seeds that have been buried deep in the soil.
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Wait two to three weeks, then cultivate the soil again to remove any newly-germinated weed seeds. Continue cultivating the soil throughout the summer until the area is vegetation-free.
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Rake out any large rocks, then smooth the soil lightly with the back of the rake. Don't worry about a few uneven areas.
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Mix your wildflower seeds with material such as sawdust or vermiculite, mixing approximately 10 parts sawdust or vermiculite to 1 part wildflower seeds. The wildflower or vermiculite will help you distribute the small seeds evenly. You will also be able to see where you have scattered seeds. Use approximately 1/2 lb. of wildflower seed for every 1,000 square feet of planting area, or as directed on the seed packet.
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Cover the planted area with a light covering of a mulch such as chopped leaves or dry grass clippings. Water the planted area lightly to moisten the soil and settle the seeds. The wildflower seeds shouldn't need to be watered again, although your wildflowers will benefit from an occasional watering during hot, dry summer weather.
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References
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