Wildflower Meadows & Margins

Traditional wildflower meadows have been in decline for many years, but they are slowly making a reappearance under agri-environment schemes or for aesthetic purposes. They can take many years to evolve naturally and can't be instantly created just by sowing seeds. However, with good establishment and management, excellent results can be achieved within a relatively short space of time.  

This course will explore the biodiversity and environmental benefits that wildflowers can bring to your land.  Marek Nowakowski will give a background to wildflowers and how they benefit pollinators, he will also look back at the last 60 years and how our landscape has changed. The Cotswold Seeds team will look at how to select and establish seed mixtures to suit your soil type and system, and when and how to cut, graze or reseed. The day will also include a farm walk to see the wildflower meadows and margins at FarmED and an overseeding demonstration.

Marek Nowakowski

From childhood Marek has had a passion for both wildlife and farming.  Since 1970 he has worked in agriculture as an agronomist and research scientist.  In 1998 he helped set up the Wildlife Farming Company, dedicated to improving farmland habitats through research, practical experience and training. During his career he has worked with government, research, policy and commercial organisations.  He has demonstrated that wildlife can coexist with modern, profitable agriculture and has communicated this widely on television and radio.

This course is suitable for farmers, land owners and land managers, advisors and conservationists. 

Tickets include refreshments and a seasonal lunch from the FarmED Kitchen.

This is a full-day course running from 10am to 4.30pm.

Tiered Pricing

Delivery of our mission is a collective effort and our values embrace inclusivity and diversity. We don’t want price to be a barrier to anyone visiting FarmED or attending our events.

FarmED Bursary

If cost is a barrier to you attending, then please do ask us for financial support. The FarmED Bursary offers free or subsidised places to those that will benefit most.

GREAT Farmers

As part of the GREAT project (see www.greatglos.co.uk) we can offer subsidised places to existing and aspiring farmers, growers and advisers in Gloucestershire to the suite of regenerative agriculture and agroecological transition courses at FarmED. To book, please select the Discounted Ticket option below. You will be asked for a few eligibility details including evidence of your involvement in regenerative agriculture and your potential impact in Gloucestershire.

North East Cotswold Farmer Cluster

We can offer subsidised places to members of the North East Cotswold Farmer Cluster (https://www.cotswoldfarmers.org/).  To book, please select the Discounted Ticket option below.

We like to take photos and occasionally videos of our events to use on our website and social media, please let us know if you do not want to be photographed.