Preparing the soil early spring or autumn to remove any grass or weeds. Prepare the plot to a depth of 20cm (8”), or 10cm (4”) in previously planted plots. Ensure the area is prepared to a fine tilth, wait a few weeks, then clear off any weeds that may have grown, either with a systemic weed killer or by hand. It is most important that the site is completely free of weeds. Sowing the seed. A quick and simple method is to mix the seeds with sand and scatter evenly over the area. The sand will help you see where you have sown. The seed needs light to germinate, so rake in trying not to bury the seed. The suggested sowing is 2-3g per square metre.
The perfectionist’s way Divide the area to be sown into metre squares, measure out the seed required for one square metre, and pour this into a see-through plastic cup. Mark the depth on the side of the cup - this saves having to weigh the seed each time. Pour one measure of seed onto a shovel and spread evenly over one of the metre squares using a stick to tap the seeds off the end of the shovel. Gently rake the seed into the soil but don’t bury the seeds, as they need light to germinate.
The Perennial seed mixes all contain over 20 species of plants, and should be sown at a rate of 2g per square metre (except Purple Haze – 3g per sq. m.) from early autumn to late spring, with October/November being the best for medium to large scale plantings. Once established the meadow can be managed simply with an annual cut in late February.
