Seeding Guidelines

When to Plant: The best planting times are spring or fall. Seeds may also be planted in early summer if they can be watered regularly for the first 4-6 weeks. In cold climates, fall planting should be scheduled late so seeds will not germinate until the following spring.

Site Preparation: To avoid competition, remove existing vegetation by pulling, tilling under, spraying with a general herbicide, or by a combination of these methods. Loosen compacted soil by scraping tilling or scarifying. Tilling should be utilized only when soil is very compacted and further weed control measures can be taken.

Planting Rate: A minimum and maximum planting rate is given for each mixture. A planting rate in the minimum range is usually sufficient to establish a good stand of wildflowers on prepared soil with weed control. The maximum rates are recommended when adequate soil preparation and weed control are impossible, or when a maximum display is required. Avoid using more than the recommended rates since poor perennial establishment may result.

Seeding Rates: 7 to 8 lbs. seeds one acre. 1 lb. seeds 6000 sq. ft.
1/4 lb. seeds 1000 sq. ft. 1 oz. seeds 250 sq. ft.

Planting Depth: If seeds are broadcast, rake in lightly, covering seeds no more than 2-3 times their thickness (some seeds will show). If seeds are drilled, drill to a maximum of 1/4 inch. If hydroseeding is the method of application, hydromulching will provide a top cover.

Moisture: Planted areas must be kept consistently moist for 4-6 weeks during the growing season until seedings are well established. During this period, daily watering may be necessary. Thereafter, watering should be gradually reduced. In moist climates, regular rainfall may make supplemental watering unnecessary. In arid climates or during drought conditions, up to 1/2 inch of supplemental water per week may be required to maintain an optimal display.

Planting Techniques: When seeding, mix with fine grained sand, cornmeal, etc. to increase the bulk of the mixture. After sowing rake the seed lightly into the soil. Keep the ground moist until the seedlings appear in about 3 weeks. Spread seed by hand or use any conventional seeding equipment available.

Tips: To prolong blooming, water during dry periods throughout the growing season. Once the wildflowers are established, relatively little maintenance is required unless there is a weed problem. Eliminate weeds prior to sowing the wildflowers and remove as many subsequent weeds as possible. Top fill in bare spots, break the soil and lightly rake additional seeds into the soil. A late fall mowing will scatter the new crop seeds and eliminate unsightly bare stalks.