Wild flowers v Vegetables.

[derekpara]

This Spring I sowed wild flowers, including poppies, in my vegetable patch ( for a change.) Some weeks ago I pulled them all up and turned the ground over ready for next year's vegetables. Now the whole area is full of wild flowers again and all my work has been in vain. Is there any way I can get rid of these now unwanted plants permanently ? If not, what is the best treatment to keep them at bay so as not to interfere too much with the veg ?

[Clanad]

You've, ah... sown yourself a real problem. The wild flowers, as you are finding, propagate from seeds spread from the flowers. Some of these seeds are very small and they are all very hardy. I would suggest spraying the area with an environmentally friendly weed killer now, and then again in the spring as early as you can, but at least 2 weeks before sowing vegetable seeds. Even, then, you'll have to pull up the occasional wild flower...

Best of Luck!

[Pythia]

Ah, poppies. The seeds stay viable in the ground for up to 70 years, and disturbing the ground helps them germinate.

On the other hand, I bet your veg will be stronger than your average annual flower, and you may even benefit from unforeseen 'companion planting'. And you'll have such a pretty veg patch ...

[mullein3]

you will end up like me!! i only grow wild flowers and herbs..and funny enough i have decided to donate my veg plot to make a huge wild flower haven..i allready have wild chamomile sprouting through the footpaths every nook and crany..feverfew also...and poppys springing up all over the place..and dont mention ox eye daisys i must have a billion of them..and i hate pulling things up...

[derekpara]

Thanks, you lot. Anyone want to buy some poppies next year ! ?