Re-seeding
As our current meadow sward consists of a high percentage of grasses, we decided to over-seed with a weald meadow mixture. An important plant species for managing meadows is Yellow Rattle (Rhinanthus minor). This grows into the grasses within the meadow sward weakening them, allowing other wildflowers room to grow.
In order to give the seed the best possible chance to grow, we created spaces within the meadow sward so the seed had direct contact with the soil. Using a compact tractor and an attachment that scarified the whole area, the garden team created pockets of bare soil, removing thatch build up from old grasses. This replicates the impact action that grazing animals have on the surface with their hooves.
As October comes around, reseeding starts. Up to 2kg of seed will first be mixed together with sand. This is then hand broadcast over the entire meadow area.
We also decided to experiment by over-seeding some areas more heavily creating what is known as inoculation strips. This is another method that aims to create a small but more populated area of wildflower species. These plants will then seed and spread outwards in the coming years.
As well as seeds, the garden team has also been busy planting thousands of bulbs into the meadow. These have included many thousands of purple Crocus tommasinianus, Snakeshead Fritillaria meleagris, the wild daffodil Narcissus pseudonarcissus and two different species of blue flowering Camassia.