Turn a bare patch, neglected corner, or even a container, into a glorious, wildflower meadow.
To capture the magic of a flower-filled field in miniature, all you need is a sunny spot and a handful of seeds.
You don't need acres... An untidy spot or an existing border in need of a makeover are both prime sites to grow meadow flowers. Turn to page 84 of July's The Simple Things for Cinead McTernan's feature on growing and buying annual, perennial, and mini meadows.
Read on for top meadow growing tips:
Don't shirk the weeding
Putting in the spadework at the start will ensure your plot is weed-free. Once weeded initially, let the soil settle for 3-4 weeks. Spray or hoe any new weeds, rake over - now you can sow.
Sow early
During March or April, but you can sow in September: on lighter soils, autumn-sown seeds generally establish quickly, but you may have to wait until next spring.
Scatter your seed
The simplest way to sow is to mix the seed with sand (so it's easily visible) and scatter evenly. For large areas, divide your plot into square metres and weigh out the right amount of seed for each.
Know your natives
Plantlife suggests buying seed from suppliers that source native plants (for examples see www.floralocale.org). Or contact your local Wildlife Trust as some now collect native seeds from their sites.
Cheat a little
Boost perennial meadows with plug plants or bulbs. Experts recommend yellow rattle - it's a parasitic plant, which weakens grass and so allows wildflower seeds to thrive. for an instant effect on roofs or smaller areas, buy meadow turf.
Not got July’s The Simple Things yet? Buy or download your copy now.