Bird’s foot trefoil (Lotus corniculatus) is a native wildflower with bright yellow and orange blooms. We know it is an important nectar and pollen source for insects and that it is visited by bumblebees, but we do not know much about its value as a garden ornamental.  

We are growing bird’s foot trefoil in hanging baskets at Wisley, and in tubs at Ryton Organic Gardens during summer 2017. Our student intern will make assessments of plant performance, nectar and pollen production, and bumblebee visitation.  

 

Take part
You can contribute to data collection by using the Blooms for Bees app to survey the bird’s foot trefoil plants if you visit RHS Wisley, Surrey. The trial will be accessible in the trials field during summer 2017, with on-site instructions on how to take part. 

 

Join the conversation on social media using #WisleyBlooms and follow trial updates on our blog.