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Native Wildflower Meadow
Our wildflower meadow, planted in 2004, is one of 6 fields on Fairview Farm that were eligible for Wildlife Habitat Incentive Program (WHIP) funding from the Natural Resource Conservation Service (NRCS). Traditional yards require constant mowing, irrigation and a host of fertilizers, pesticides and herbicides to combat the problems inherent with the “perfect lawn.” Meadows are a form of natural gardening because the variety of flowers and grasses combine to create a wonderful habitat for wildlife such as birds and butterflies. The initial years of establishment require some preparation and maintenance however the long term gains are well worth the reward of mowing just once a year!
To begin establishing our wildflower meadow, we began by designating an area and removing all invasive plants. Due to the density of multiflora rose on our property, we applied an application of mild herbicide three weeks before any seeding took place. A native mix of wildflowers and grasses was seeded during the following spring. Grasses may be added to a wildflower meadow to help suppress invasive plants while giving a more “meadow-like” appearance. Since wildflowers are prone to deer browse, a fence was erected. Each year, while the ground is frozen, the meadow is mowed at an 8-12 inch height. While providing wildlife cover during the winter months, this height also encourages the growth of native wildflowers and grasses, while discouraging invasive plants. Regrowth of invasive shrubs, such as multiflora rose and Japanese barberry, are removed by hand and spot treated with herbicide.
When purchasing seed mixed for a wildflower garden, be sure that the species composition includes absolutely no invasive species and preferably plants native to the region. A good source for purchasing wildflower seed mixes that are native to NJ is Bowman’s Hills Wildflower Preserve and Ernst Conservation Seeds. There are also nurseries which sell propagated plants that are native to our region. If you opt for this, be sure that the plants you purchase are nursery propagated and not collected from the wild. See the following sites for information on plant availability:
*Please note the deer fence is required for wildflowers only as native grass meadows are not prone to deer browse.
Click on the following links to learn more about Fairview Farms Gardens:
Bird and Butterfly
Garden
Native Shrub Border
Native Wildflower Meadow
Native Warm-Season Grass
Meadow
Native Tree
and Shrub List
