Create low-cost, low-maintenance flower-filled plots around the yard that provide habitat for pollinators, reduce mowing, and address problem areas with special plantings for shady, damp, erosion-prone, or deer-susceptible spots. The word meadow conjures images of wide expanses of land, but a mini meadow - a kind of informal flower garden started with seed sown directly into the soil - can be any size; plus, it’s fun, easy to grow, and good for the planet. With as little as 50 square feet and for less than $20, gardeners can plant a colourful meadow that demands little in the way of space, mowing, or maintenance, uses less water than a traditional lawn, and provides habitat for pollinators - not to mention a natural exploration space for children. From choosing the right variety of seeds, preparing the soil, sowing evenly, and watering well, author Mike Lizotte guides readers through the process of successfully creating a miniature meadow that suits their climate, soil, and growing goals, whether planting to beautify a hellstrip, halt erosion, fill a boggy spot, or establish a nesting area for bees and butterflies. Mini Meadows offers gardeners of all levels the keys to creating, caring for, and reaping the rewards of thriving meadows through the seasons, year after year. AUTHOR: Mike Lizotte, aka the Seed Man, is the author of Mini Meadows. As the owner of American Meadows, he has been helping people start home-scale meadows for more than 25 years. He lives in Essex Junction, Vermont, with his wife and daughter. SELLING POINTS: . Expert author with a strong platform in the seed and gardening world. Mike Lizotte travels all around the country speaking to audiences about the value of meadow-growing. His company, American Meadows, has been providing gardeners with seeds since 1981. . Appeals to growers with small spaces and little gardening knowledge as well as more experienced gardeners looking for an inexpensive, hassle-free, naturalistic way to beautify landscapes and support pollinator conservation. . Regionally specific planting recommendations and comprehensive guidance for every step of the process, from evaluating soil and choosing seed to caring for meadows through the seasons and the years. Full-colour photographs throughout
