Wildflower seeds require some special treatment before planting. The most important treatment techniques involve stratification and scarification processes.[1] Stratification improves germination in most native grasses and wildflowers. Stratification involves exposing seeds to a cold and damp period before sowing. Most native flowers do this naturally by seeding out in late summer or autumn. Their seeds lie damp and cold on the soil surface for at least one winter season before germinating. Stratification mimics this process. Natural inhibitors are leached out of the seeds during stratification. Stratification technique can be done as follow; Place seeds in a clean bag or container with a little moisture, enough to make them damp, but not soggy. Place them in the fridge for one to three weeks, then plant immediately. Scarification is known as the intentional removal or damaging of the seed coat. Scarification should not be applied until the seeds are about to be planted. Naturally, rain action and soil microbes carry out natural scarification. Also, it may be accomplished by the seeds passing through the digestive system of an animal. [2] Scarification technique can be done as follow; hard coated wildflower seeds can be encouraged to germinate more readily by rubbing between two sheets of sandpaper hence allowing moisture to penetrate more readily. [1]
REFERENCES
1. Northcott, J. Wildflower seed stratification and scarification 2015 [cited 2015 12th August]; Available from http://www.wildflowersuk.com/blog/wildflower-seed-stratification-and-scarification/.
2. wildflowers. Seed Treatments. 2020 [cited 2020 April 30th ]; Available from: http://www.wildflowers.ie/wild-zone/technical-wild-flower/seed_treatments.htm.
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Few people truly give much thought to the vital role that pollinators play in gardening and agriculture – and to the wider ecological picture. Without pollinators, it would be very difficult, if not impossible, for human beings to grow the food that we need to survive on this planet. Sowing native wildflower seeds for pollinators is one of a number of things gardeners can do to protect them.
Why Choose Native Wildflowers?
Many flowers, herbs and other plants are excellent for pollinators, and will attract them to your garden. But any planting scheme for pollinators must include native plant species. Native plants grow best in your area – being the right plants for the right place. They will also help to protect local ecological balance. Native wildflowers will promote natural biodiversity where you live.
Biodiversity is important. Not only will a biodiverse garden look and feel great, it will also attract the pollinators and other beneficial wildlife you need to successfully grow food at home. What is more, a biodiverse garden will be more resilient in the face of climate change and other challenges.
What To Look For In Good Plants For Pollinators
The aim for gardeners looking to attract pollinators is to make sure they provide bees and other pollinators with a source of nectar year round. In addition:
Sowing a seed bomb in your garden is one way to make sure pollinators thrive where you live.
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