A conservation charity is hoping its spectacular planter outside Hove Town Hall will inspire local businesses to use native wildflowers in their plant displays.
Planted by volunteers from the Wild Flower Conservation Society (WFCS) the display has flourished through the summer and is now providing an important source of nectar and pollen for insects when many garden plants have finished flowering.
The planter contains native Sussex wildflowers, grown from locally collected seed at the Society’s volunteer-run nursery in Stanmer Park that is supported by Ranger Sally Graham Macleod on behalf of Brighton and Hove City Council.
By using plants of local provenance, the project helps support wildlife that has evolved alongside these species for thousands of years.
Paul Johnson, Chair of the Wild Flower Conservation Society, said: “This planter shows what can be achieved in a relatively small space. It isn’t just about creating something beautiful – it’s about providing food for pollinators throughout the seasons and demonstrating how our towns and cities can become part of nature’s recovery. Every planter, verge and flowerbed can help reconnect habitats across Brighton and Hove.”
The society hopes the planter will inspire residents, businesses and community groups to replace traditional bedding displays with native wildflowers that continue to provide nectar well into autumn.
Native wildflowers support far more wildlife than many ornamental plants and play an important role in helping reverse the decline of pollinating insects, which are essential for healthy ecosystems and food production.
The project reflects the Society’s mission of bringing the flowers of the South Downs into the heart of the city, creating stepping stones for wildlife across urban areas.
Wild Flower Conservation Society is open to the public at the Stanmer Park every Tuesday between 10am to midday and on the last Sunday of every month between 1ppm and 3.30pm, and can be emailed at wildflowers.brighton@gmail.com
~
