Seeds, Wildflowers Biodiversity Blend (West Coast Seeds)

Biodiversity begets biodiversity. Plant a wide variety of flowers, and it will attract a wide variety of pollinators.

The hugely diverse flowers of the thirty flower species in the Biodiversity Blend are variously shaped, scented, and sized. Some are generous with their pollen and nectar, while others are stingier, but all were selected because of their attraction for bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects. Even hummingbirds will become regular visitors. Several species included produce edible seeds to benefit songbirds even after the colours have faded. This blend reaches a height of about 1m (3'), and is hardy to Zone 3. It is composed of perennials and self-sowing annuals, and will bloom from late spring to first frost, changing as the seasons pass.

Timing
Try to direct sow wildflower seeds during the period two weeks before, and eight weeks after, your last average frost date. Sowing when there is some risk of minor frost may improve germination. Wildflower seeds can also be sown in the autumn, but a certain percentage of seeds to may be lost to water, birds, and animals. To make the most of the annual species, direct sow in early spring.

Starting
Site Selection: If there are already no plants (including weeds) growing in the planting site, there may be a problem with the soil. Possible issues may be soil fertility, lack of drainage, or the need for soil amendments to improve texture. In such spots (eg, beneath a cedar tree), few plants will thrive, including wildflowers.

Site Preparation:
Remove as much existing vegetation as possible through pulling or tilling under in order to minimize competition. Loosen the soil by scraping, raking, or tilling. Wildflower blends will not usually take if planted into existing lawn because the thatch prevents their contact with soil.

Seed Application:
In small areas, seeds can be scattered by hand. In larger areas, you may want to employ a lawn spreader or some other mechanical means. We recommend adding 1-2 parts clean, dry sand to 1 part wildflower seeds which will help the seeds spread evenly. Do not use beach sand, as it usually contains salt. It may be wise to spread most of the seed, but to save some for filling in bald spots at a later date. Seeds must come into contact with the soil in order to germinate. Do not bury seeds more than 2-3 times their thickness.