On a walk around Byford this summer, you can see the results of work carried out by resident Muriel Holmes to boost the number of native wildflowers in the parish.
“At Lower Byford we are fortunate to have several naturally occurring wildflowers as you can see from this photo,” said Muriel. “Our aim is to increase the mix in this area, particularly in the verges at the start of the Wye Valley Walk, along the Bridleway known as Green Lane.
“We have added more red campion, introduced some foxgloves, and planted marsh marigolds on the edge of a small stream. Spring flowers will be next on the list, plants such as primroses, and cowslips.”
UK wildflowers is an important starting point for increasing biodiversity as they support wildlife native to our countryside.
Wildflowers provide nectar for insects such as butterflies and bees; leaves, for caterpillars and beetles to hide in and eat; hollow stems for insects to hibernate in; night scent, which attracts moths (which attract bats); and seeds, a source of food for birds throughout the winter.
Looking at the red campion planted by Muriel – bumblebees, butterflies and a number of moth species visit this plant for its nectar. The 24-spot ladybird is one of only two plant feeding species of ladybird found in the British Isles and red campion is one of its favourite food plants. This insect is a small orange-red and black beetle with 24 dark brown spots of various sizes making it easily identified.
If you can find a spot in your garden to plant wildflowers then you’ll be doing your bit to reduce the decline in biodiversity. The decline has been happening at an alarming rate in recent years, mainly due to human activities, such as land use changes, pollution and climate change. See if some of UK wildflowers on this list take your fancy – you’re bound to spot a greater number of different insects in your patch as a result.