Wild Carrot, 3 Grams - Approx. 3000 Seeds

Wild Carrot is a distinctive wildflower species which adds a natural structure to the wildlife garden between more subtle flowers. The biennial or short-lived perennial provides essential architectural height across its two-year growth cycle, as well as being a key food source for pollinators. The plant is easily identified by its broad, flat-topped umbels of white flowers, which often feature a single, deep-red floret at the centre to attract a wide variety of pollinating insects, including bees, hoverflies and parasitic wasps. 

The dried flower heads contract into a "bird’s nest" shape in late autumn, providing vital over-wintering habitats for other invertebrates including spiders who make beautiful webs around the heads. In a large wildflower patch, these are a spectacular sight on dewy autumn mornings in the sunlight. 

While it performs best on well-drained, chalky, or sandy soils, Wild Carrot is a hardy plant that will tolerate most soil types provided they are not excessively waterlogged.

Seed Coverage

The 3 gram packet contains approximately 3000 seeds, enough to sow up to 6 m² if sowing on its own or up to 30 m² if integrating it into an existing wild area. 

Sowing Instructions

• Sow in autumn to allow the seeds to undergo a natural period of chilling.

• For new sites, clear all existing vegetation and cultivate the soil to a fine tilth. Surface-sow the seed and rake in gently to ensure good seed-to-soil contact without burying the seed too deep.

• To introduce into existing meadows, cut the vegetation to ground level in mid-to-late autumn. Scarify or rake the area vigorously to expose patches of bare earth, then broadcast the seed directly onto the disturbed ground.

• Expect slow germination as the plant waits for the correct spring temperatures. Once established, the seedlings are hardy and require minimal intervention.

• Manage the site by cutting back dead vegetation in late autumn after the seeds have naturally shed. To preserve over-winter habitat, this process can alternatively be done in spring, or not at all for a truly wild garden. 

Features on the Royal Horticultural Society's Plants for Pollinators list due to its pollen and nectar producing qualities.