‘Let’s make Cornwall the most beautiful, wildflower-laden, glorious place to
live and visit in the country.’ Alasdair Moore, Head of Gardens and Estate, the
Lost Gardens of Heligan
Wildflower Collective have been working with the Lost Gardens of Heligan who have
been pioneering the use of a large wildflower display for nature, people and
business. The Heligan Wildflower project was established in 2019 at their 4.65
hectare annual wildflower meadow of Cornflowers, Corn Camomile, Corn marigold
and Poppy. This provides habitat and forage for pollinators, connects visitors with
nature, and demonstrates a novel business opportunity in local seed production.
The Lost Gardens of Heligan have sold seed wholesale to the National Wildflower
Centre and in their shop. In collaboration with the South West Partnership for
Environmental and Economic Prosperity (SWEEP) project, they have created a Case
Study and Business Case and short film outlining the opportunities of wildflower
seed for the environment, the economy and visitor engagement.
“Working with SWEEP on the wildflower project and business case has
enabled us to deliver something scientifically robust and very special. It’s rare
to be able to create something that delivers so much – that’s beautiful,
enhances biodiversity, is meaningful to people, strengthens relationships with
the people we work with, and is financially productive.” Alasdair Moore, Head
of Gardens and Estate, The Lost Gardens of Heligan.
What can you do to help wildflower meadows?
Get inspired! Take a look at the Lost Gardens of Heligan case studies on the
SWEEP project page, and our short film and the Lost Gardens of Heligan article
Let nature thrive! Start with simple but effective ways to make space for nature –
reduce the number of times you mow your lawn or leave a wild area in your garden
or community greenspace. For support whatever the scale of your meadow join our
Meadow-Makers’ Network at www.moremeadows.org.uk.
Meadow Match is run by Wildflower Collective in partnership with the University of
Exeter, The Halpin Trust and the SWEEP project.