We all know the image of a field with a single crop (or just grass), as far as the eye can see. It will come as no surprise that monoculture does not exactly benefit biodiversity. More recently, however, luscious plant life has found its way to the verges of many a field. With it, a symphony of animal sounds now graces these formerly barren acres. Find out why wildflower strips are not only beautiful, but also benefit pollinators and farmers alike.
Wildflower strip in between arable land in South-Heves county, Hungary
Halting the decline
Before industrial-scale agriculture, smallholder farms would have seen a mix of fields, meadows, shrubs or woodland. For the benefit of efficiency, most of this natural life was lost in the second half of the twentieth century. In the past fifteen years or so, European subsidies have promoted the replanting of wildflowers at the edges of agricultural fields. These flower strips can play a part in halting the decline of our precious pollinators.
Flower strips can be sown in an orchard, along a field edge or between rows of crops. It is important to use seed mixtures of native flowering species designed for the area. For one, these plants will grow better in their local habitat (soil type, availability of water and sun). Moreover, they will attract the birds and bees that are adapted to their presence.
Another consideration is to have a wide range of wildflowers. Plants that flower at different times throughout the summer attract a greater variety of animal life. The best bet is to use a mix of bi-annual and perennial species. These long-lasting plants are more effective at encouraging insects and their pollinating services. Variety in flower types (open or concealed nectar flowers) is also important for different pollinators.
Green-fallow strip in front of flower fields in South-Heves county, Hungary
Ornamental and edible plants
You might think that wildflower strips only consist of ornamental plants such as cornflowers, poppies and bush vetches (Vicia sepium). Did you know, however, that you can also use herbs and spices such as coriander, dill or cumin? Even buckwheat and wild carrot (Daucus carota) are found in flower strips. They can grow alongside legumes such as bird’s-foot trefoil (Lotus corniculatus) and red clover (Trifolium pratense).
If you want to see all of this beauty blossom, though, it would be wise to exercise patience. For the best result, the strips should be managed over several (3 to 4) years. This allows species to establish and prevents grasses or weeds from taking over. The wildflowers should have short growth in order to tolerate repeated mulching.
Insects, birds, animals and humans
What does all this work yield in the end? Well, the wildflower strips benefit insects, which play an important role in pollination. They are also good for birds and other animals, providing cover and food resources (especially in winter). Finally, recent studies have shown that wildflower strips help improve pest control by 16%. It turns out that flowering fields are good for humans as well – and not just because of their beauty.
