Sunflowers were chosen because of their large noticeable iconic shape, they are easy to grow, and they easily bring a smile to people of all ages. They can provide a neighbourhood theme and, being of great benefit to wildlife, they work towards creating connected bee corridors.
Building on the success, and learnings, of the 2021 trail we were able to approach more new sites with easterly and southerly facing locations, all in prominent locations close to footpaths and where nearby businesses or residents would help to plant and water the flowers. 58 sites were selected.
Staff and students at our 4 nearest schools, St Stephen's National School, Colaiste na Mi Secondary School, St Mary's Special School and Ard Ri Community National School, were approached and they welcomed the opportunity to be involved in germinating and growing hundreds of seeds until ready for planting.
We have planned to have a huge surplus with the intention of giving flowers to households along the route to grow in their own front gardens.
We have created a street poster with QR codes to direct interested members of the public to our website for more information.
We will encourage trail followers to photograph and record any wildlife or insects seen feeding on the plants.