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How to Lay Wildflower Turf
What is Wildflower Turf?
Wildflower turf is an easy way to create a beautiful meadow in your yard. It’s made up of a variety of native wildflowers that attract pollinators and other wildlife.
Benefits of Wildflower Turf
- Attracts pollinators and other wildlife
- Creates a beautiful meadow
- Easy to establish and maintain
- Can be used in small spaces
How to Lay Wildflower Turf
Materials:
- Tape measure
- Garden spade
- Wildflower turf
- Garden rake
- Sharp knife
Instructions:
- Measure the area you want to transform.
- Use a spade to remove the grass and top layer of soil.
- Cut the grass into strips and roll them up for easy removal.
- Prepare the soil with a rake, making sure it’s level and free of large stones.
- Consolidate the surface by walking up and down, taking small, heavy steps.
- Lay the turf on the soil, staggering the joints like brickwork.
- Use a knife to cut off any excess turf.
- Water the turf well.
How to Maintain a Wildflower Meadow
- Choose a location with poor soil, as wildflowers thrive in these conditions.
- Don’t fertilize your meadow, as this will encourage the growth of grasses and reduce biodiversity.
- Suppress grasses by introducing yellow rattle, a parasitic plant that weakens grasses.
- Mow your meadow in autumn, after the flowers have gone over. Remove all cuttings to keep soil fertility low.
- Sow new wildflower species in autumn to introduce new flowering plants.
Tips for Success
- Water your turf regularly, especially during dry spells.
- Keep the soil fertility low to prevent grasses from taking over.
- Control grasses by introducing yellow rattle or mowing regularly.
- Allow the flowers to self-seed to ensure a continuous bloom.
