new meadow

[Farplace]

There are parts of our new meadow that are utterly spectacular. Amongst the various seeded grasses and reeds are self-heal, red clover, field pansies, buttercups, daisies, yarrow, harebells, pignut (seeded now, a beautiful crimson-seeded plant) 2 types of thistle, Lady’s smock, plantain, and a tiny white flower as yet un-IDed. I am enjoying the colour changes as the seasons change.
I just wish my camera was working…………..

[shenk1]

Come on Jan get the camera working !

Its not like you've anything else to do

[artdemole]

Nice description.Words paint pictures in the mind......

[Farplace]

Question: Do I graze it? (I have 12 sheep) or do I let it stay fallow for this year?

[Tursiops2]

Interesting question.

Originally Posted by Farplace

Question: Do I graze it? (I have 12 sheep)

Given that management of a wildflower meadow is supposed to replicate a grazing regime, and you're in the envious position of being able to do it properly, I would have thought the sooner you get it started the better.

Originally Posted by Farplace

do I let it stay fallow for this year?

If by "fallow" you mean uncut/ungrazed, I'd say no. Cutting/grazing is important in reducing nutrients in the soil, and low nutrient levels are essential for a good wildflower meadow.

I'm not an expert, however, so I'd be interested in other opinions.

T2

[Tursiops2]

Originally Posted by Tursiops2

and you're in the envious position of being able to do it properly,

I just re-read this (in the cold light of day) and it should, of course, be "enviable"

T2