Get the effect with perennial splits
A quick and inexpensive way to get a meadow effect is to make use of your own existing plants. Perennials such as golden rod, Michaelmas daisy, ornamental grasses and helenium can be lifted and split in the next few weeks. The resultant plants can then be mixed up and planted across an area. If you can muster 10 splits from five or so plants you’ll be well on your way to creating a meadow look with reliable perennials which will return year in year out. You can crank up the look another notch by throwing in some easy-to-grow annuals such as Verbena bonariensis or
Papaver somniferum. With a good mix of species like this you’ll ensure flowering longevity and plenty of pollen for insects to feast on. And unlike an annual meadow, it’ll return with minimal effort every year.