Flower meadows do not require as much maintenance as a lawn, which has to be mowed at least four to six times a year, and also fertilized and watered regularly. However, you must not leave meadows to themselves, otherwise they will become overgrown.
Regular mowing ensures biodiversity
This renaturation is a completely natural process, as a result of which the herbs and flowering plants typical of a meadow would initially be displaced by more competitive plants. Above all, shrubs and bushes (e.g. blackberries) as well as easily spreading and fast-growing trees such as maple and birch will overgrow the former meadow. In between, stubborn grasses in particular thrive. This development can only be stopped by maintenance measures, including mowing in particular. Mowing ensures that competitive plants are pushed back and more delicate flowers and herbs are given a chance to grow.
The right time for a mowing
The right time for a mowing is essential. If possible, only mow your meadow when the flowers and herbs have bloomed and are whole. In this way you ensure that the seeds of the desired plants have enough light and space to germinate - the seeds germinate about three to four weeks after mowing (most meadow flowers germinate in the light) and grow into new flowers and herbs. Meadows are traditionally mowed in the second half of June and in August.
Natural meadow maintenance by sheep or geese
Of course, you cannot use a normal lawn mower to mow the meadows, as it would be hopelessly overwhelmed with such a task. After all, the plants grow diligently until the first mowing at the end of June and reach a considerable height by then. Normally you can only get through the thicket with the help of a scythe. However, this is physically quite strenuous and, depending on the size of the meadow, can also degenerate into a fairly extensive task. Perhaps a well-known farmer can also help you with a tractor and mower, otherwise - depending on the type of meadow - grazing animals are also suitable for careful management. Sheep and goats in particular are undemanding, but geese are also quite undemanding. Horse meadows, on the other hand, have to meet strict requirements, as the animals are comparatively choosy (and sensitive).
tips and tricks
Of course, you don't have to be the owner of the sheep or goats yourself - maybe a friend or neighbor would like to keep animals, but doesn't have the space for it? This saves you a lot of work and feeding costs.