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Even wildflowers and native plants well-adapted to our climate must be planted with care. Nature sows abundantly, accepting losses. We sow sparingly, hoping for good returns. To be successful, you will need to help your seedlings to get started.
When to plant
: Sow annuals in spring after danger of hard frost has passed, or in the fall, after nights turn colder, for germination the following spring. Most perennials can be planted anytime up to six weeks before fall frost. Soil must be warm for germination to occur.
Prepare planting area
: Start in a weed-free area, or remove any weeds present. Only till if soil is hard-packed, otherwise you may bring weed seeds to the surface. Rake shallow furrows in planting area.
Sowing
: Hand spread a mixture of seed & sand, vermiculite, or compost to ensure proper spreading of seed. Go over an area twice (north-south, then east-west). Cover seed with 1/4 to 1/2 inch compost, or rake to cover seed to that depth so seed won't dry, blow away, or get eaten by birds and rodents.
Watering
: Water about twice a day for first three weeks, keeping seedbed moist but well-drained. Then water once a day for the next threee weeks, gradually tapering off water. Seedlings that dry will die! Mature plants will not be as sensitive. If you sow during a rainy spell, it will save you lots of work.
Maintenance
: Pull weeds before they get too big. With some initial work, you can help your native plants overwhelm potential generations of weeds and stabilize an area. Mow or cut your "meadow" area to 4" or higher in late fall, after plants have gone to seed. Lightly "top dress" your area with compost and/or aged manure throughout the year, at least in the late fall. This will add nutrients and perpetuate self-seeding of your wildly successful flowers! |
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