In this article and video, we explore techniques to enhance biodiversity and support insect populations on UK farmland through optimised management of flowering plant mixtures.

This content is based on practical insights into extending the flowering periods of these mixtures, essential for insects such as bumblebees and other beneficial insects. 

Read on to learn how these techniques can be implemented to boost farm wildlife and improve soil health.

Why Extending Flowering Periods Matters

One of the most effective ways to support insect populations on farmland is by extending the flowering period of sown mixtures. Most insects rely on a continuous supply of nectar and pollen, particularly as they prepare to overwinter or enter hibernation. A longer flowering period helps insects "tank up" on essential resources, ensuring their survival through harsher seasons.

Key Insight:
Extending the flowering period by up to two months can make a significant difference for insects and pollinators.

A Management Example of a Spring 2023 Mixture

In the spring of 2023, a mixture was sown on fertile soil, and two management techniques were employed to test their effectiveness in extending the flowering period into 2024.


First Technique: 
A section of the field was left uncut after the initial growth. By mid-July, the flowering period had diminished, with only a few flowers hanging on.

Second Technique:
Another section was given a mid-June cut. This encouraged new flower production so extending the flowering period by an additional 6-8 weeks. As of early September, this cut area was still flowering, providing vital resources for insects.

This simple mowing plan highlights how even minor adjustments can make a considerable impact on the biodiversity of a farm. By cutting around mid-June, the flowering period is extended well into the later summer months, a critical time for many insects.

The Importance of Mowing Plans for Grass and Wildflower Mixtures 

Mowing plans are often discussed in the context of pollen and nectar mixtures, but they can also be applied effectively to grass and wildflower mixtures. A well-timed mid-June cut can add up to 10 weeks of flowering, providing much-needed nectar and pollen for insects. The extended flowering period also helps ensure that pollinators have enough resources before the winter hibernation sets in.

Farmer Feedback: 

Farmers have reported that insects, after exhausting the uncut flowers, naturally move to the recently cut areas as they start to bloom again. This helps sustain insect populations across the farm. 

Managing Diversity in Flower Mixtures 

Beyond extending the flowering period, it is also important to manage the diversity of plant species within mixtures. Certain species can become dominant, which can limit the diversity of flowering plants available to insects.

For instance, wild carrot can dominate in certain soils, outcompeting other species. Though it is a biennial plant, it can still take over if not managed carefully. Cutting these plants before they go to seed is a useful technique to prevent them from dominating in the following years.

Other Dominant Plants: 
Oxeye daisy is another species that can dominate in the first few years of a mixture. By managing these dominant species through well-timed cuts, the overall biodiversity of the sown mixture can be improved, providing a more varied and continuous supply of nectar and pollen for insects. The idea in year one is to keep the sward short and open so they slower species have space.

Final Cut to Prevent Seeding

One final technique to consider is timing the end-of-year cut to ensure that dominant species like wild carrot after the mid-season cut set seed for the following year. 

By cutting before seeds mature, you can help control their spread, promoting a more balanced plant mixture and increasing biodiversity.

Conclusion: Two Key Techniques for Extending Flowering Periods and Enhancing Biodiversity 

1. Mid-June Cut: 
This can extend the flowering period by 6-8 weeks, ensuring a prolonged supply of nectar and pollen for insects.

2. Managing Dominant Species: 
Cutting before plants go to seed help maintain a diverse mixture of flowers, preventing any single species from dominating.

Both techniques are simple yet highly effective in promoting biodiversity and supporting farm wildlife. By applying these methods, farmers can play a crucial role in enhancing the wellbeing of insects and ensuring that their farms remain a vital habitat for pollinators.

Final Thoughts

For those willing to invest time and care into managing their flowering mixtures, these methods provide significant benefits for farm biodiversity and wildlife.

By extending the flowering period and controlling dominant plant species, farmers can make a real difference in the health of their ecosystems.