Objective Wildflower strips, as an ecological restoration measure to address the degradation of urban-rural ecological landscapes, demonstrate benefits in enhancing biodiversity and ecosystem services. However, spring-sown wildflower communities often exhibit lower than expected biodiversity. This paper aims to investigate the effects of autumn-winter sown wildflower mixtures on community assembly, analyze the assembly potential of different species and their interactions, and provide a scientific basis and practical references for ecological restoration in urban-rural landscapes and agricultural ecosystems.

Method This study selected 25 representative wildflower species and established a controlled experiment with monoculture and binary mixture sowing treatments. By incorporating metrics such as species germination rates, early growth performance, and species interaction network analysis, this study systematically analyzed the effects of sowing methods and species functional traits on the assembly of autumn-winter sown wildflower mixed-sowing communities.

Result (1) Compared with monoculture conditions, the binary mixed-sowing approach significantly enhanced germination rates, plant height, and growth vigor scores for most species, thereby improving the potential for community assembly, with marked variations in growth performance observed among species. (2) Species interaction network analysis revealed that core species exhibited dual roles, both synergistic and antagonistic effects, on different species during the assembly of autumn-winter sown wildflower mixed-sowing communities, highlighting their pivotal role in optimizing community outcomes.

Conclusion The binary mixed-sowing enhances community assembly, and the rational combination of core species is critical for ecological benefits. This study provides a scientific basis for wildflower community assembly and offers practical guidance for ecological restoration strategies in urban landscapes and agricultural ecosystems.