What to expect from your wildflower meadow

Your wildflower journey begins with a dazzling display. The first summer is often filled with brilliant blooms from fast-growing annuals - poppies, cornflowers, scented mayweed, corn marigold, and corncockle may all make an appearance. These early stars aren't just eye candy; they play an important role in supporting the long-term meadow. Acting as a kind of 'nurse crop', they provide cover and protection for the slower-growing perennial and biennial species that are just starting to take root. Enjoy the show - these annuals will usually die back come autumn.

- With DIARMUID GAVIN

YEAR 2: The early settlers In the second year, the meadow changes character. The splashy annuals are mostly gone, and their place is taken by hardy biennials and a few quick-growing perennials. Oxeye daisies often dominate, creating a white daisy-dotted field in early summer. You may also see red campion or knapweed if they've established well. While it might look less dramatic than the first year, this phase is a crucial step in the meadow's develop-ment, as underground roots and seedbanks quietly build strength.