Grow Your Own Wildflower Meadow!

I remember the day the RSPB catalogue arrived in the post. Packed with the most beautiful items for sale, I was mesmerised but nothing grabbed my attention more than a piece regarding wild meadows. 

97% loss of our wildflower meadows since the 1940's. The previous year, I'd dabbled with the idea of turning a section of garden into a wild meadow, inspired by my local conservation sites. There's nothing more intoxicating than walking hip deep in Meadow Sweet, Grasses, Wild Sage and even the prolific yet highly scented "alien" Himalayan Balsam, on a warm Summer's eve with the buzz of insect life all around. I wanted some of that at home to enjoy anytime. Gathering some wildflower seeds, I spread them on the site of an old pond, but nothing remotely wild meadowy grew. Simply described, it was merely a thick matted mass of dense grasses and low creeping weeds, stifling any new seedlings.

Thanks to the RSPB, I felt fuelled with the desire to start again. I began with no expectations of what was achievable. My only loose objectives were to create an authentic wild flower meadow to attract as much wildlife as possible, plus hopefully achieved in a cost effective way. I needed to complete the project on a budget.

I spent that Winter researching the wild flowers most favoured by Bees, Butterflies and Moths. 

I discovered to sow the site professionally would be expensive, so I gathered a list of seeds recommended and began ordering them, mostly online at auction sites. I discovered I could buy thousands of seeds for 50p! I found a reputable seller willing to not only add seeds I required, yet even kindly combine p&p. A flurry of seeds soon flooded through my letterbox; Blue Cornflower, Organic Borage, Water Mint, Wild Violets, Flanders Field Poppy, Mixed Poppy, Ox Eye Daisy, Corn Chamomile, Corn Marigold, Buttercup and Clover. I was thrilled when the Soil Association offered packs of free organic Phacelia seeds to anyone who emailed them within a certain date. They would prove to be a valuable asset.

As Spring approached, the real work began, digging the site, removing stones, unwanted plants, any remaining pond liner and preparing the soil for seeds. My soil is heavy clay, and not easy to work with, but the beauty of wild flowers is they don't care! It was a pleasure to skip adding manure, repeated soaking and raking to a fine till. That can be kept for the flower borders and vegetable patch. 

The fun part next! I mixed all the seeds together, then split into 50-50. I kept half of the seeds to sow in a few weeks, to provide ongoing colour throughout the Summer, and to fill in any bare patches. I mixed the remaining 50% with sand to ensure sowing is even and to add weight as it was windy for days. I raked very little, then watered. And that's the only effort it took!

Almost immediately, the soil sprouted countless healthy seedlings. While it's tempting to weed out obvious plants you might not want out of habit, I did my best to leave it be, fight it out, as nature does best.

My mini meadow grew easily and thrived. Each day it visually matured. I watered when very dry, yet only when the seedlings were tiny. It was self sufficient and required no feeding or training. I'd busy myself with the rest of the garden, then simply stand and admire the mini meadow!

Exactly 30 days later, the old pond site was lush with vegetation, tranformed, budding, and on the verge of blooming. As it bloomed, every day felt special.

Wildlife moved in immediately. It's true what they say, if you build it, they will come. Previously, the only butterfly visitors were Cabbage Whites and occasionally a Tortoiseshell. Now, several Speckled Wood butterflies danced amongst the foliage, Common Blues spent entire afternoons feeding on the Field Marigolds and it became alive with a myriad of Bees, Hover Flies, bejewelled Beetles and all manner of wee beasties from sun up 'til sun down. As a keen nature photographer, I was spoilt for choice! Ladybirds attracted to aphids on Corn Chamomile quickly moved to the veggie garden, especially the runner beans, where they bred like crazy, saving me the job of hand removing black fly. The site became a riot of colour and activity, a joy to behold. After dusk, the site came alive with Moths. It was by far, the greatest gardening decision I've made.

Originally I grew wildflowers to benefit wildlife, yet as it exploded into life, it became a place of healing and upliftment for people, too. For some time I tried to figure out it's magical quality, before concluding nature is just good for the soul! I didn't expect to enjoy it quite so much. Visitors reactions were similar. Nobody could get enough. It was just beautiful! Every morning new flowers opened, new colours, shades, shapes, and sizes. Brilliant new gifts. It altered daily, and often revealed new surprises, whether flora or fauna. I delighted in the huge Elephant-Hawk Moth caterpillars, following their progress as they fattened on Willow Herb. The site took on a life of it's own. A buzzing community.

There's nothing like starting the day with a cup of tea, in the quiet softness of early morning light, watching wildlife already productive, enjoying fresh new blooms that weren't there yesterday.

When I considered writing this blog post, I wanted to show how easy it is to complete a project like this, how cost effective it is and how rewarding. This is only my second year, yet having gathered so many seeds from last year, my only outlay came from choosing some new varieties, which I didn't need to do. Wildflowers generously shed seeds. It's possible to gift or even sell them, which all helps to spread these flowers. Mini wildflower gardens are addictive too, everyone who witnessed it said they are keen to start! Just one or two seed pods will likely replace your initial purchase. And I must confess, while seed collection isn't my fortay, I enjoyed it this time around. Maybe it's the delightful seed head shapes, who knows.

I hope you feel inspired to give a go! I promise you will enjoy it. I'm a gardening novice, some of my experiments in the garden have been more miss than hit. This has been a pleasure from start to finish.

Last Summer it came to my attention some council's have taken to growing wildflowers on verges and roundabouts, not only helping wildlife but also slashing their mowing bills. I think it's inspired. Newport council, not far from me, have done an incredible job.

I'm also hearing increasing numbers of people are growing wild flowers, even without space or a garden, making use of window boxes and pots. When I think of our combined efforts as a birds eye view, all these mini wild meadows must add up to a glorious percentage returned! I really hope so. If you're thinking of growing your own but you don't have space, it really doesn't matter how small, it will prove invaluable.

I'd love to know if you're thinking of growing your own!

(more pics to come)

 

Rare Wild Linnets

Following on from my last post about Feeding Wild Birds, I quickly wanted to share that sometimes you can attract and feed even red status birds simply by doing less!

During the Summer of 2013, my garden Forget-Me-Knots attracted a pair of Linnets. They fed exclusively on the tiny black seeds over several days, and I managed to film some shaky footage from a window.

Linnet numbers have decreased by 57% and the RSPB lists them as Red Status. Wales has been particularly hit, so it was doubly pleasing to see the Linnets here in Wales!

It's good to know simple non-actions such as leaving weeds can provide a feeding haven for rare birds! My Forget-Me-Knots were not planted by me, they spread from a nearby property.

Which brings us neatly to, sometimes "unsightly" weeds can be a bonus! Just as my drying, seeding Forget-Me-Knots became a fantastic free bird feeder, not being too meticulous in the garden can reap fabulous rewards for your wildlife. Wild plants such as Thistles and Nettles may not be everyone's cup of tea, but if you do have space tucked away for them, you may be surprised how much wildlife they attract! This year I have Nettles growing in raised pots. I'm hoping a variety of butterflies use the pots to lay their young. Last year I had a Red Admiral lay on nettles in the garden but ants killed the caterpillars. I'm hoping pots work in two ways, keeping the plants ant free without resorting to powders which would put the Butterflies off laying anyway, and preventing them from spreading through out the rest of the garden. If you're nervous of growing fast spreading weeds, why not try pots? 

Let me know your favourite method of growing `weeds` in the comments!

(Click on highlighted text to view the Linnets)

How To Attract Wild Birds To Your Garden

   I used an old table as a feeder, and laid a fallen branch for interest and perches.

Since I was a little girl, I've loved feeding wild birds! I thought I'd share my tips. If you're new to feeding birds, I hope you'll find this both enjoyable and rewarding!

As you provide birds with valuable resources, the pleasure is returned multi-fold as you view a fluttering feast for the eyes right outside your window! Greenfinch, Blackcaps, Bullfinch, Woodpeckers, Linnets, Goldfinch & a whole host of other spectacular species are just some I've viewed from the comfort of my window, for very little pence.

My last Winter count amassed an astonishing 42 different species! Some feed for mere seconds, re-fuelling on their way to new pastures, while others linger from season to season and make your garden Home. It's always a delight seeing something new! I honestly don't think anything beats seeing a rare species enjoying your feeders. Medical studies have even proven bird watching improves both your health and overall well-being, reducing stress which in turn boosts your immune system! It's a win-win hobby!
 
There's a bewildering array of feeders available at garden centres and other suppliers. But I've learnt the simpler they are the better! You can even use a simple tree stump with treats sprinkled. The most important factor is how easy they are to clean. That's why simple, is golden.

You might also feel overwhelmed deciding what food to give your birds. The price varies wildly in my experience. if you're in it for the long run, buying in 20-25kg sacks might be cost effective. Alternatively, you don't need spend a lot, a little shopping around can net big savings! I buy good quality wild bird foods from any local Poundstretchers, Pound land or any budget shop for.. 1 pound! They also sell refillable fat slab holders for 99p, inc the fat slab. So you don't need to spend a fortune. BUYology stores sell enormous fat bars the size of church candles for 79p. Since I began to shop around, I've cut the cost to a quarter while maintaining quality (black sunflower seeds are really all the same) and the birds love it and polish it off regardless! My birds are pretty fussy eaters, so if they eat it, the quality is there. The only time they've refused food is certain grains in wild bird mixes. Don't be concerned if that happens, they will pick out their favourite pieces. With the cheaper mixes there can be more waste, but for the price it equals out. I used to buy a no waste seed feed, but it was so expensive it didn't figure out. Plus the birds still refused to eat some bits! 

One of the simplest ways is to grow your own Sunflower seeds! Plant a few seeds in the ground at the back of borders. Enjoy the Summer blooms, then allow them to ripen for a zero maintenance feeder over Winter. Remember to keep some seeds back for next year, and it won't cost a penny.

You can make your set-up as diverse or simple as you choose. That's the beauty of it.

 
A few Simple Guidelines:

Move feeders regularly. Areas below feeders can become stagnant and even harbour disease.
 
Clean feeders regularly with a bird safe product. Fill & clean feeders wearing gloves for your own health.

Now we've got that out of the way, time for the fun stuff! What are your favourite birds? Go through bird books or online to find what food they prefer. To gain more species, provide food on different levels and include as much variety as you can. Just like fish are bottom feeders, top feeders, and everything in between, the pattern is similar in birds. Some species such as Dunnocks, Blackbirds and Wrens really favour ground feeders. Others prefer hanging feeders and others are opportunistic, happily accepting food wherever it is, such as Sparrows. Providing food on different levels also allows shy birds access to food when competitive birds are dominating feeders.

 
Birds often have specific food preferences. A more varied selection vastly increases your chances of rarer or more uncommon species. Try to be really patient with new foods and feeders. Sometimes birds come immediately, sometimes it takes a while but once they know they'll be consistent unless passing through. It took me weeks offering Nyger seed to attract Goldfinch, now they were plentiful and this food even attracted glorious Redpolls. It's worth the wait when your patience is rewarded with something new or unexpected! There's nothing quite like racing for a bird identification book and adding a new species to your expanding list of visitors! If you're feeling dispondent remember birds want to eat as much as you want to feed them, and they will come if you build it, or something ;) 
 
Recent information recommends against stopping feeding birds after Winter. Spring is a vital time for birds to refuel ready for the important breeding season. Males are busy singing for territories, while females build their fat storage to create eggs. Studies have shown it is the fat levels of a female that determines the number of eggs and even repeat nesting in many species. If a female has a nest predated, she will only lay again if she has enough fat reserves. Your offerings can make a really big difference!
 
While processed white bread has been a popular bird feeding choice, it contains very little nutritional value. Avoid salted or roasted peanuts, plain are best. Anything in a shell takes more time to open, using up valuable energy reserves especially in Winter with snow on the ground, so try to feed shelled where possible. Monkey nuts may look cute hanging up but plain peanuts are preferable.
 
To encourage your birds to visit and remain nearby, provide a water source. While food is essential, water is vital for both drinking and bathing. On a hot day, natural sources easily evaporate. There's a vast selection available, I use a simple clay tray used initially as a large pot stand. Anything that holds water will suffice, providing it isn't too deep. 2 inches is the recommended depth.
 
While high fatty foods are generally frowned upon in the human diet, fat is a vital part of bird food. Birds do not become over-weight and it helps them stay warm and active. If birds have regular access to fat in your garden, particularly in Winter, it can make a big difference to their survival.

                             Bargain! Buy boxes of 100 fat balls for just £4.99 each, during Summer

Fat balls are my number 1 tip to start. They're extremely popular with many species of birds, from Sparrows, Blue-Tits, Starlings, Great-Tits, Greenfinches and Long-Tailed Tits, and may always remain one of your most popular feeders! You can make your own, there are many easy recipes online. If buying pre-made, they're cheaper in bulk. I purchase tubs of 50 pieces for around £5-£6. Certain times of year they're on sale, so that's a good time to stock up and store. I'll always go for fat balls without netting, if not remove them yourself and place them in a fat ball holder, I buy mine for around 1 pound from Wilko's and they last years.

Remove fat ball netting, commonly used to hang balls from branches before offering and always use your fat ball holder. It's unlikely to happen yet there have been too many reports of birds getting their delicate claws entangled. Safe fat ball holders designed to hold 4 or 5 are perfect, easy to hang and so dispense with the netting. Often large tubs of fat balls come sans netting. Encourage those sellers.
 
Choose which feeders you prefer not by looks but by how easy they are to clean, you'll thank me later! Peanut holders need 6mm gaps in the mesh to prevent whole peanuts being removed, so birds do not choke. 

Some feeders look amazing and novel, but are almost impossible to take apart and will wreck your nails and cut your fingers in the attempt, no matter how hot the water is! I've wrestled with more feeders than I care to name, and in the Winter when you want a quick job outside, that's not fun! All my feeders are now chosen purely on their ability to come apart easily, and be simple in design. No nooks or crannies!

Clean weekly with hot water, rubber gloves and a good bird friendly disinfectant. Dismantle perches, lids and tubes and wash with clothes and brushes just for that job only. 

My absolute favourite feeders cost just 99p and are strong red plastic in one piece with no places to hide crumbs / bacteria from hot water, the sort that hold peanuts. They are perfect to clean and what you want. If a feeder is too complicated, is sealed or glued together, doesn't come apart or has unfortunate gaps for food to slip down between layers, give them a wide berth. I've seen people use feeders with seeds growing up the sides. Washing once a week is really important and it doesn't take long. Some people who never clean have to stop feeding as their birds picked up diseases and were spreading it via the feeders. It doesn't matter how beautiful they are, they must be functional, and cleaning should be top of your list. After all, we love our birds! You don't want to fix one problem (provide food where it may be scarce) then create another (spread or cause disease) Let's keep birds healthy, and feed year around!

                          Look at these beauties! Not caring about a home-made bird table

If you have space why not make or put up a bird table. Apparently bird tables began with German nobility, today you can find them in almost every size and shape and sold everywhere. Making your own cuts costs considerably. Add a raised rim around the edge to prevent your food blowing away. The rim should have a gap in all four corners, to allow rain water to flow away and avoid puddling. A roof is not vital, but useful. You can add a lot of different foods to a bird table, I wouldn't be without mine. It's very relaxing and the birds love it too!
 
If overwhelmed by choices, begin small. I began with one or two handing feeders for two different types of food. Good choices could be fat balls and plain peanuts. Each require a different style feeder. Feeders should be labelled in the store. Once you've got the hang of two feeders; filling them regularly, moving them every so often, cleaning etc, add more! Sunflower hearts/seeds are popular, plump for Black which contain a higher oil content. Again, these require a different feeder style than your first two. In this way, you build your knowledge, confidence and different bird visitors and takes the stress away.

I touched on it earlier; birds prefer to feed near cover. If you have trees, shrubs or bushes, hang them close. My hanging feeders are high enough from the ground that cats can't jump, and near enough to shrubbery they can quickly hide from aerial predators like Sparrowhawks. 

My lower feeders are a little away from shrubbery so cats can't pounce so easily. Ask neighbours with cats to add a bell or keep them indoors from dawn to dusk if they're being a nuisance at your feeders. As a vet nurse I know the majority of road traffic accidents occur at night or dawn, it's also the time they attack birds more, so it could be a nice titbit of info to pass on! 

With a little thought your birds will stay longer on your feeders, giving you more viewing time. If feeders are very exposed, birds will tend to take food away to eat in the cover.

 Look at this absolute bargain! While I prefer to feed live meal worms freeze dried are great too if you're squeamish about wrigglies!

Once your garden becomes a mecca for birds, expected surprises! Sometimes it doesn't matter how carefully you plan your feeders, fantastic birds can be attracted to you in unexpected ways. Last year my flower border of seeding Forget Me Knots (Myosotis scorpioides) attracted a pair of rare Linnets! Fortunately I was able to grab a few bits of video from my front room window. It's always wonderful to see what's out there, and that leaving a little patch of weeds can make all the difference to a feed or not.
 
So providing wholesome food can sometimes be more simple than we think. Ants in a lawn provides welcome food for Green Woodpeckers. It's beneficial refraining from reaching for the ant powder! Instead turn a blind eye to any small mud mounds in grass if you can! My neighbour has a large garden yet he's extremely busy and has taken to allowing it run wild. He regularly has a Green Woodpecker visitor. This Spring his accidental garden of Eden was filled to bursting with Dandelions, as they went to seed I saw two new birds swooping low to eat the seeds, every evening during dusk. I'm working on identifying them still, as the light was so poor. One sang in a nearby tree, it's call loud and unique with only two tones. My neighbour taught me that even those with little free time can still help birds by simply not caring about being too tidy! We've also had a bumper crop of hedgehogs, butterflies and moths, which I'm sure he has helped. Seeing a hedgehog happily chasing a moth (unsuccessfully!) made my evening! Every time it sat still, the hedgehog couldn't see it. They danced together for quite some time before the moth flew away. Priceless!
 
Listen daily. It's easy to miss new species visiting your garden. Large numbers of birds pass through our gardens without our knowledge. Listening becomes a vital tool. I've added a list of bird sound tracks to my channel so you can learn more. Birds chatter wherever they are. If you provided a water source, you'll hear them socialize as they gather around to bathe, and of course arguing over food! Once you become accustomed to the various calls of your birds, it will stick out when something new arrives. I heard my Linnets before I saw them. The same for my neighbours birds and a few others. Be aware, you'll likely pinpoint new species through hearing before sight! You can look up likely birds at the RSPB website.
 
One last note! Birds can be fussy! Getting to know other bird feeding enthusiasts via groups or online can be useful. I've swapped food stuffs with friends after my birds began to dislike food they previously enjoyed. Talking with fellow bird lovers, you'll discover some birds are fussier than others (even with same species, just like us!) while others will eat almost anything. My blackbirds refused to eat their favourite food half way through a bag. I gifted it to a friend whose Blackbirds ate the lot. I received some mealworms in return which mine gobbled up! Once you have general knowledge of accepted foods, don't be surprised or think you're doing something wrong if birds suddenly reject food they once enjoyed. Try a swap or something new. If the food is fresh and uncontaminated, it's just one of those things! Don't be discouraged, you didn't do anything wrong. I had Sparrows do the same thing. I also had my birds demolish a fat slab, once replaced they didn't touch it so it went mouldy and I threw it away. You can never tell what they want, or if food is perhaps inferior, for whatever reason, don't be too concerned, swap and change and stay positive and soon they're feeding again as normal.

I hope my hints and tips are helpful and you enjoy many years of Happy Bird Watching. Please share in comments your experiences!