Country lifestyle WILDFLOWER MEADOWS

Plant one of these beautiful, rich wildlife habitats and your garden will be bursting with colour and alive with bees and butterflies

- RACHEL CROW

Romantic wildflower meadows provide a rich tapestry of food and shelter for pollinators and other wildlife. You don't need acres - you can create one in your own garden instead of an area of lawn or a border. 'The look of a wildflower meadow is ephemeral and appealing, but preparation is key,' says Rob Jones, director of The Garden Design Company.

WHAT ARE THE DIFFERENT TYPES?

There are both annual and perennial wildflower meadows. 'At its most simple, an annual meadow does best in areas where nutrient levels are high, but will need re-sowing every year,' explains Rob.

'A perennial meadow often lacks poppies and cornflowers, but the result is permanent and the look changes from season to season, year to year. There are mixes to suit different situations, whether the soil is well drained or wet, in shade or sun.'