Wildflower Meadow

The site of a wildflower garden is dependent upon by the availability of sunlight and soil conditions. Wildflowers generally like full sun and soils with low fertility and good drainage.

A wildflower meadow that begins with 15 or more species can end up with less than seven species in just a couple of years. The change in species will occur until stabilization has been reached by a group of dominant plants. This natural reduction in species is known as ecological succession.

Native species are well adapted to the harsh,environmental extremes of these open, unprotected meadows. Full sun dries out the soil quickly and the open exposure means these meadows experience the full extremes of high and low temperatures. Most native wildflowers typically wait until the monsoon rains before putting on their big show. Hence, selecting wildflowers and bunch grasses with attractive foliage is important for creating full season beauty.