Wildflowers are “low maintenance,” not “no maintenance.” Without some attention, most will not flourish for long.

Weeding: Meadow wildflower gardens pose special maintenance requirements because of the potential for weed invasion. While a meadow garden does not have to be weed-free to be attractive, extremely vigorous or invasive weeds may require control. Isolated weeds can be removed by hand, and herbicides may be more effective in certain situations. Read the label carefully and exercise caution in the use of herbicides to avoid injuring desirable plants.

Fertilizing: Wildflower seedlings can be lightly fertilized when nutrient deficiencies are evident. Broadcast applications of 500 to 1,000 pounds per acre of general purpose fertilizer in spring or early summer can benefit wildflower plantings in typically infertile sites.

Mowing: Generally, meadow gardens should be mowed at least once a year in late fall or early spring at a height of four to six inches. Small areas can be cut with a swing blade or scythe. During the growing season several mowings may be needed around the outside of meadow plantings to better define the wildflower beds.