Yellow Rattle Native Meadow Seeds

Rhinanthus minor

Other names: cockscomb rattleweed, arctic rattlebox

Often referred to as the meadow maker’s helper, yellow rattle is an essential item in the kit bag of anyone wanting to plant wild flowers.

The reason for this it it’s parasitic to grass. Basically, it stops grasses dominating your meadow allowing the more delicate wild flowers to take hold and flourish. If you’re going to grow wild flowers you’d be crazy not to include yellow rattle in your mix.

How to Plant

Cheap and Easy Method:

Scatter the seeds directly onto bare soil. Clear the area of any debris and lightly rake the soil to create a loose surface. Evenly broadcast the seeds, then lightly rake again to ensure good seed-to-soil contact.

More Involved Method:

Use a terram membrane to suppress unwanted vegetation. Add a layer of soil over the membrane, sow the seeds evenly, and press them in gently.

When to Plant

Plant Yellow Rattle seeds in the autumn (September to November). Yellow Rattle requires a period of frost to germinate.

Where to Plant

Yellow Rattle prefers well-drained soil and full sunlight to partial shade.

Watering Schedule

Maintain consistent moisture in the soil during the establishment phase. Once established, minimal watering is required.

Blooming Period

Yellow Rattle blooms from late spring through summer (May to August).

Expected Plant Height

Yellow Rattle typically grows to a height of 15 cm to 40 cm. (The regulation trophy size won at a Cromer Pier mini golf tournament.)