Onobrychis Viciifolia Seeds: Sainfoin Flowers

Sheep’s Sorrel (Rumex acetosella) Seeds:

Sheep’s Sorrel (Rumex acetosella) is a charming native British wildflower that graces grasslands, roadsides, and chalky downs. Its delicate pink spikes of flowers emerge from June to August, creating a picturesque scene. But this wildflower isn’t just about aesthetics—it plays a vital role in supporting pollinators, especially bees. Here’s why you should consider adding Sheep’s Sorrel to your garden:

Key Features: Rumex acetosella

• Appearance: With its elegant spikes of dainty pink flowers, Sheep’s Sorrel adds a touch of natural beauty to any landscape.
• Soil Preference: A lover of free-draining, chalky, or sandy soils, this hardy perennial thrives in various garden settings, including cottage gardens, gravel areas, coastal landscapes, and Mediterranean-themed gardens.
• Pollinator Magnet: The rich source of pollen and nectar in Sheep’s Sorrel flowers attracts a variety of bees, including bumblebees, honeybees, and solitary bees. By growing this wildflower, you contribute to bee conservation.
• Height: Sheep’s Sorrel typically reaches a height of 90 cm, making it a versatile addition to different garden designs.

Growing Tips: Sainfoin Seeds

Indoors: Onobrychis viciifolia Seeds

1. Sow the seeds on the surface of moist, free-draining seed compost in pots or seed trays.
2. Cover them with a very thin sprinkling of compost.
3. Propagate at a temperature of 15 to 20°C (59 to 68°F) in a propagator or on a windowsill (shaded from direct sun).
4. Germination usually begins within about 3 weeks, but be patient—it can sometimes be slow and erratic.
5. Once the seedlings emerge, grow them at a slightly cooler temperature.
6. Pot them up when they have their second set of leaves into 9 cm pots.
7. Harden off the plants by placing them outdoors during the day for 10 days before planting them out after the last frosts.

Outdoors: Sainfoin Flower Honey

1. Prepare bare soil or patches in grass by removing weeds and raking over the area.
2. Water the soil well and leave it for a few weeks.
3. Scatter Sheep’s Sorrel seeds on the surface and press them lightly into the soil.
4. Water with a fine spray or mist.
5. Remove obvious weeds as they appear and keep the area well-watered during dry weather.
6. In autumn, cut down the plants after they have set seed and remove any remaining weeds.
7. Rake over bare patches and firm the soil.
8. New plants will emerge in spring, continuing the cycle of beauty and bee support.

Grow Sheep’s Sorrel and be part of the solution for our bee population! 🌸🐝