Time to plant wildflowers

Wildflower plug plants can be planted virtually all year round – just remember to water them regularly until they have established.

Flower-friendly farms ‘boost bee populations’

An article written by Helen Briggs – BBC Environment Correspondent – says that “Planting farmland with strips of flowers can boost the number of wild bumblebees, a study has confirmed.”  This message bears repeating again and again – action needs to be taken, not least because bees play an essential role in the pollination of our crops.

Recent studies have shown that 1 in 10 wild bees faces extinction in Europe.  The European Red List, drawn up by the International Union for Conservation of Nature, found 9.2% of nearly 2,000 species are threatened with extinction.

Another 5% are likely to be threatened in the near future.

Threats include loss of habitat from intensive farming, pesticide use, urban development and climate change.

Snowdrops are flowering again

Isn’t it wonderful when the first Snowdrops appear again and sparkle amongst the grass, whether there’s snow on the ground or not.

You can add some to your garden now.  They are such good value.

http://www.reallywildflowers.co.uk/products-page/bulbs/

Flowering now in the countryside…

Red Campion and Foxgloves are now brightening up the road verges and Birdsfoot Trefoil in meadows will soon be attracting bees and butterflies.  Hope there are lots of wildflowers where you are – if not, then get planting!

Time to sow wildflower seed and add wildflower plug plants

The Spring sowing of wildflower seed can normally carry on until late April and even into early May if there is still rainfall to help germination.

Wildflower plug plants can be planted virtually all year round – just remember to water them regularly until they have established.

Cowslips on special offer

Ideal time to plant Cowslips – at the reduced price of 73 pence per plug until 28th April.