Goldfinch feast

Just browsing some old RSPB mags, {I just can't throw anything away!} and there is an article about attracting Goldfinches to your garden...something different from the niger seeds they like.
Quote'Plant some Oenothera biennis [evening primrose] seed. This, sown in suitable places in the garden, [even right up to the door or window]will provide plants, which over a two year period, offer foliage, flower and insect and bird interest. The first year after germination whorls of beautiful green leaves turn colour in the autumn and last thro the winter. The following spring, stout stems grow to four feet or more with leaves at intervals, then large bronze buds which open in the evening from the end of June and continue until the first frosts. If there is time to stand or sit and stare, one can watch the buds unfurling in about an hour into a large yellow flower that lasts for a day. The scent attracts night-flying insects, moths in particular and the flower is fertilised. If the plants are left standing, copious amount of seed are produced, the pods at the bottom ripening in September. Then the goldfinches arrive. No need for squabbling or bullying, with plenty of stems for all, and quantities of seed available into the new year. As this plant is a biennial it is necessary to sow seed for two consecutive years. After this, the fallout from the goldfinches, blue tits and great tits allows sufficient plants to grow for future years.' unquote
Very interesting I thought, have to give it a try! Unless someone already has???..........

 

I had it in my last garden, very pretty but spread all over- still if the birds like it perhaps it's worth it! :D

 

the other thing that's supposed to spontaneously generate goldfinches is teasels! So I've grown loads from seed, and have lots of nice little teasel plants, just waiting to go in my wilflife garden! If anyone wants some, I'll have some to spare(no cost, obviously!)