• native or naturalised species have been selected on the basis of their ornamental value, their importance in terms of biodiversity and their ability to grow under low water availability conditions.
• the seeds of wild species were harvested in natural areas of Tuscany during the summer time.
• the biology of collected seeds is under study. Most of the species showed primary dormancy, therefore the seeds need a period of vernalization.
• field experiments aimed at the biological, functional and aesthetic characterization of the selected species have been set up at the Department of Plant Biology, University of Pisa. Sowing was carried out on loamy, sandy and filling soils to study the biology of the selected species in relation to the soil characteristics. Only in Eupatorium cannabinum and Hypericum perforatum did germination not occur.
• native or naturalized species suitable as cut flowers or potted flowering plants have been identified and trials to study their adaptation to intensive cultivation have started: sowing was performed in container trays and maintained under greenhouse conditions. Seedling emergence was performed in all species.
• soils of natural areas and soils used in the field experiment have been characterised physico-chemically.
• sowing was done in urban and peri-urban areas for wildflower demonstrative plantings, except for the Antraccoli area, where sowing was delayed due to the low temperatures. Seedling emergence was performed in all areas and plants have reached 2-5 cm height.
• demonstrative plantings have been marked with display notices. These show the project and the scientific partners. The list of wildflowers and all partners are shown only in the pedestrian areas.
• instructive lessons were given to the teaching staff; school pupils took part in the soil preparation and seeding with great enthusiasm.