Seeding

When: Fall - Late October until ground freeze; Frost - snow free periods during winter; Spring - April through mid June.

Method: Native seeds can be broadcast (by hand or mechanical equipment) or planted with drills specially designed to handle native seeds. Packing or rolling a spring planting helps with germination as native seeds require a firm seedbed. Packing fall or frost seeded plantings is not necessary as snow and rain will have time to settle the soil before germination. 

First Season Management

Do not let weeds or other vegetation get taller than knee high in the first growing season. Mow to a height of 4 to 6 inches whenever the vegetation grows 12 to 18 inches high. Typically this is every 2-3 weeks during the first growing season, but will depend on local soils and weather conditions. 

Long Term Management 

After two to three growing seasons, most native plantings need to be burned to become well established. Burning promotes growth of native grasses and wildflowers and decreases weed pressure. Without burning a thatch layer will develop over time, limiting growth of native grasses and wildflowers. Controlled burning is one of the most important management practices for thriving native plantings. 

Once your planting produces enough vegetation to carry a fire, the planting can be burned annually for 3-4 years. Mature prairies can be burned once every 3 to 5 years. Controlled burns in March or April will stimulate growth. Always use caution, common sense, and follow local fire regulations and obtain permits if necessary. Burn plans are essential for safety and achieving the best results from a controlled burn. Contact us or your local conservation agency for advice on how to develop a burn plan for your native planting.