Benefits of growing wildflowers

Go wild this summer

A wildflower is a flower that grows in the wild, meaning it was not intentionally seeded or planted.

Wildflowers make more than just a pretty photograph. They increase biodiversity, help wildlife thrive (particularly pollinators) and help absorb more carbon. Not to mention their beauty is great for our mental health and pride in our community.

With 41% of insect species in decline and only 3% of wild grassland remaining in the UK, we want to protect Surrey's future for upcoming generations to enjoy. If we manage our 3,000 miles of verges and our roundabouts differently we could make a significant impact.

What we're doing to support wildflower growth in Surrey

We have committed to reduce how often we cut grass areas on land we manage. This provides a big opportunity to increase plant and insect biodiversity as well as an opportunity to sow wildflower seeds. We have recently taken over responsibility for highway grass cutting and weed control across the whole of the county, which has historically been carried out by district and borough councils. Junctions and sightlines will continue to be cut regularly to ensure they are safe for drivers and pedestrians to cross, while other verges will be cut four times a year in urban areas and twice a year in rural locations.

We're also supporting the national Blue Campaign Hub which is all about councils and residents across the UK finding land suitable to let nature take over and grow wildflowers.

How you can get involved

You know your area, so we'd like you to help identify land such as verges or roundabouts which are suitable to be left uncut.

If you'd like to get involved you need to:

  • Pick a location where you believe it will be beneficial for the environment for the grass to be left uncut.
  • Maintain the area by raking or removing annual grass cuttings and picking up litter if it's safe to do so.
  • Make or purchase a blue heart on the Blue Campaign web page to show your support
  • You can also do your bit by not cutting an area of grass in your garden. In return you'll get a healthy garden full of colour and life. Join in No Mow May and enjoy seeing more wildlife in your garden.

Visit the Blue Campaign web page to find out more and to tell us about a site near you or follow the community led initiative, Surrey's Wildflowering Project UK, on Facebook for inspiration.

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