Site Preparation

Prairie Seed Installation Recommendations

Optimum seeding time - October 1 (fall) through July 1 (midsummer)

Seedbed preparation - Existing vegetative growth should be removed or killed with herbicides. Surface till the seedbed to a depth of 2" to 4". If the ground is wet, delay tilling unit the soil dries enough to break apart when tilled. Lightly compact the tilled soil with a roller, cultivator, or similar implement. Tilling can usually be omitted if using a no-till seed drill.

Wetland Seed Installation Recommendations

Optimum seeding time - October 1 (fall) to July 15 (midsummer)

Before you plant, be sure surrounding soils are stabilized and cannot erode into the wetland. If the slopes are newly constructed and bare, the germination and growth of your wetland seeds can be severely inhibited by situation, sedimentation, and cloudy water.

• Vegetation on surrounding slopes is the best protection from erosion damage. A quick growing cover crop such as seed oats, annual rye or turf grasses is acceptable, but a seeding of permanent native species is advised for optimum long-term stabilization and natural appeal. Contact us for recommendations.
• Other controls such as silt fences, erosion control blankets, straw mulches, and straw bale dams should be installed as required to protect your wetland.
• The type of soil substrate is important to planting success. A heavy clay substrate is not conducive to seed germination and growth. You should consider incorporating topsoil, peat, compost, or black dirt into the substrate before planting if your soil is heavy or nutrient poor.