“The medium and long-term benefi ts of allowing wildfl ower meadows to develop under planned seasonal maintenance is that of increased ecosystem resilience, which in essence means that a healthy and diverse meadow provides food and a habitat for a range of insects and small mammals. These attracts larger predators such as birds, bats and owls, creating a healthy ecosystem, above and below ground, resulting in a healthier garden where pests are kept in check.”
Preparing the Parterre
“At Waddesdon, we are working to the legacy of Miriam Rothschild, who pioneered wildfl ower meadow restoration many years before its widespread adoption. We have initiated this process by bringing onboard specialist consultant, Charles Flower, who excels in wild fl ower meadow restoration, and specialist contractor Andy Hawes and family, who have revolutionised most of the meadow management with an impressive array of machinery and implements adapted from large-scale agricultural applications.”
Wildfl ower meadow management at Waddesdon is an important practice as it is an integral part of the estate’s move towards a more sustainable horticultural
