SPRING VS. FALL SEEDING Traditionally, seeding is thought of as a spring activity. Many restoration projects are completed in the summer and require fall seeding. There are some noteworthy advantages to fall seeding. So remember, you have the option of seeding in spring or fall. SPRING SEEDING • Cool season species germinate soon after seeding • Warm season species germinate within three weeks of soil temperatures reaching 15 o C • Seed-to-soil contact should be accomplished by working seed into the soil • Seeding can be delayed until weed control can be accomplished to improve establishment • Irrigation during periods of dry weather is needed for proper germination FALL SEEDING • Some cool season species will establish during winter • Warm season grass & most forbs will germinate in the spring • Fall seeding imitates natural reseeding • Moisture and seed-to-soil contact is critical to initiate the germination process. Precipitation & frost action can assist with seed-to-soil contact in the projects early stages • Some natural stratification occurs; i.e. natural changes occur to the seed & the seed coat during the winter that enhances germination DETERMINING YOUR COVER CROPPING GOAL Planting Time* Seeding (lbs/acre) FAST ESTABLISH P & K CYCLING POLLINATOR BENEFIT COMPACTION WEED BIOMASS ALLEVIATION SUPPRESSION PRODUCTION 1 = Poor 2 = Average EROSION CONTROL NITROGEN FIXER 3 = Good 4 = Very Good 5 = Excellent Winter (Cereal) Rye 4 4 1 4 5 4 5 SCAVENGER LS,F 30 - 50 Winter Triticale 4 4 1 2 4 4 4 SCAVENGER LS,F 30 - 50 Spring Oats 4 3 1 2 4 4 4 SCAVENGER SG,LS 30 - 50 Buckwheat 5 5 5 3 5 4 2 SCAVENGER SG,SR 40 - 55 *SG = Spring SR = Summer LS = Late Summer F = Fall 5
Download PDF file