Wildflower planting
For so long, wildflowers were thought of as weeds and pests in our gardens and along our sidewalks. In recent years, society has begun to realize the importance of native flowers on a larger scale. Native flowers are crucial for our ecosystems and the delicate balance therein.
When one side struggles, the repercussions are widespread, including those on humanity. Pollinators can only exist when they have indigenous plants to feed upon. We need pollinators, as 60-80% * of the world’s flowering plants require insects to pollinate them. They also provide nesting and breeding grounds and essential shelter for our planet’s small yet important insects.
The more wildflowers we have, the more we can improve air quality, as they absorb carbon dioxide and produce oxygen more efficiently than grass or soil.
In the last 70 years, we have witnessed systematic destruction in our wildflower habitats with industrialization and large-scale farming. Other benefits of these colorful plants include the following:
- They are generally very pretty and colorful! They are stressbusters, as it’s a known fact that spending time in the company of beautiful landscapes aids our mental well-being.
- They are cheaper to plant and maintain than other varieties of plants and flowers.
- They provide enhanced soil stability in rainfall –– which, as we know, is becoming an increasing threat.
*Source: Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, UK - Why wildflowers matter | Grow Wild | Kew
