Islands of Wildflowers

Islands of wild flowers

By Laurence Gale MSc

Drivers in Telford, Shropshire have had their journeys to work brightened up. Several tra

The Council began the idea three years ago, recognising that the cost of planting and maintaining the flower beds was compatible to the cost of mowing grass on the island for one season. The added benefits are easy to see, when driving past these colourful traffic road islands.

The interest and popularity generated by these plantings has encouraged the Council to increase their planting programme. This year the council have now planted a total of twelve roundabouts and introduced some additional plantings into local parks and amenity sites.

A number of other Local authorities have now seen and heard of the success of the plantings in Telford, and are considering introducing wild floral plantings into their Boroughs and Districts.

The planting programme begins in April, when last years crop is removed, and the ground cleared for sowing. The seed is sown and left to grow and mature until flowers begin appearing in late June. Its important to check the pH of the soil to ensure that the seed mixture you choose is compatible with your soil type.

There are a number of companies offering a wide range of wild seed mixtures. You can purchase wild flower seed mixtures by clicking on the following link. Wild Flower Mixes.