5 benefits of sowing wildflowers in autumn

Sowing wildflowers in autumn is a great idea. If you sow the seed this time of the year, the seeds will be ready to sprout out of the ground come early spring.

The Benefits of Sowing Wildflowers in Autumn

Benefit 1: Planning pays off!

• To forward plan is extremely wise when sowing wildflowers in autumn as your space will be rewarded by an impressive early display the following spring.

Benefit 2: Ideal conditions

• Autumn and winter create perfect growing conditions for wildflowers as extra moisture in the air is absorbed by the seed.

Benefit 3: Ready to grow

• Winter frost will help to break the dormancy of the newly sown wildflower seeds and assist in the speed of germination.

Benefit 4: No interruptions

• There is a reduction in the risk of birds damaging wildflower seedbeds due to migration and the availability of other food during winter.

Benefit 5: Less watering!

• During autumn and winter, it is more likely to rain meaning there is less need to water your plants as nature will take its course.

Now you know when to sow, here's how you should do it!

1. Remove any existing grass, plants or flora from the area where you plan to sow your wildflower seed. Failure to do this will produce poor results
2. Remove the top 5-10cm to reduce soil fertility
3.  Allow the area to cultivate for several weeks, and remove any weeds that may pop in the area during this time
4. Do not be tempted to add topsoil, compost or fertiliser to the area - wildflowers prefer low nutrient conditions
5. After the cultivation period, ensure you remove stones or any other debris and rake the area to create a fine, friable and level seedbed
6. Scatter the seed at a rate of 5g per m2
7. Rake the seed so that it is in amongst the soil
8. Water the just-sown wildflower seed well
9. If sowing in drought conditions, watering is required to keep the area moist in the first 6 weeks after sowing

We also have a detailed guide for sowing wildflower seeds in your garden and for sowing grass seed in autumn.