22 SITE PREPARATION The aim is to produce a firm weed-free tilth. Subsoils often provide a weed-free, low nutrient status seed bed, and are therefore suitable for wild flora. It is occasionally necessary to remove the topsoil in areas of high fertility, as these soils tend to promote the growth of more vigorous grasses and pernicious weeds. Treat existing vegetation with a systemic herbicide prior to seed bed cultivation, taking note of any site constraints and manufacturer’s instructions first. SUMMARY 1. Treat with herbicide, cultivate the site and allow to remain fallow if practical. A repeat herbicide application may be necessary 2. Remove topsoil if applicable 3. Cultivate to 10cm 4. Create a surface tilth SOWING Sowing can take place throughout most of the year, providing a good tilth can be prepared, however the months of March/April and August/ September are generally the most suitable. 1. Regularly mix seed to ensure even species distribution, drill or broadcast. 2. Sow at 5g/m2 for mixtures with grass or 0.5- 1.0g/m2 for pure wild flower mixtures. 3. Bulk up small seeding rates with Rehofix MK1500 Bulking Granules 1 part seed to 5 parts bulking granules. 4. Rake or harrow - mix seed into soil (depth approx 0.5cm) Cambridge roll to firm seed bed. FIRST YEAR MAINTENANCE In the first year, control the weeds and reduce competition from grasses. Cut the sward to a height of 5-7cm every two months or when the sward reaches 15cm. Remove all the cuttings. Dig out or spot treat any perennial weeds. FIRST YEAR SUMMARY l First cut 5cm March/April (Spring seeding first cut in May) l Cut every two months or when sward reaches 15cm l Final cut - September/October and remove all cuttings FUTURE MAINTENANCE Cut to 5-7cm during March/April and remove the cuttings. A second cut should then take place at the end of the flowering season between August and October, and again remove all cuttings. Further cuts in the autumn period can be carried out to remove untidy growth as required. FUTURE YEARS SUMMARY l First cut 5-7cm March/April l Second cut 5-7cm August to October l Remove all cuttings. FOR CORNFIELD ANNUALS Weed treat ground if necessary, cultivate and re-seed in the spring or autumn. Cut once the flowering period is over during September/October. PROFlora Pro Flora Technical Guide
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