SEEDING NATIVE GRASS SPECIES FAQS WHAT ARE THE THREE KEYS FOR A SHOULD I FERTILIZE MY MEADOW MIXES? SUCCESSFUL PLANTING? We do not recommend using fertilizer when establishing Key #1- Prepare a good seedbed. Removing all invasive native plant species. Natural fertility on sites being planted species, loosening the soil, and removing the thatch will allow in native or wetland species is generally adequate. The use of sunlight to penetrate into the soil. fertilizers can promote the growth of weed species that can Key #2- Plant shallow. The rule of thumb is that seed should be no deeper than the thickness of the seed. Most seeds are less than 1/4” in size (one exception is Eastern Gamagrass, which can be planted 1” deep). Key #3- Firm the soil. You have loosened the soil to allow for good air and moisture penetration, but you must firm it to achieve good seed-to-soil contact. MY SEED ISN’T COMING UP- WHAT CAN I EXPECT? Many native seeds require long germination periods and ideal conditions (proper temperature, light or light period, moisture, and physiological conditions). Often, the seedlings of long- lived, deep-rooted perennials produce more root structure than top growth, making the plants hard to see. Usually a native establishment takes 2-3 years to become fully recognizable. Perennial plants do not produce flowers and seed heads until they have well established roots. During this period, vigilant weed control (mowing high and/or an herbicide application) is out compete your native plant species. Fertilizers can also lead to contamination of nearby wetland areas. We do recommend adding organic material to all sites when the topsoil has been removed or depleted, as this is the better way to improve soil fertility. WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN A COVER CROP AND A COMPANION CROP? A cover crop is a fast-growing species that is used to protect soil and water resources. A companion crop grows rapidly and provides protection for the desired long-term plants. CAN SEEDS FROM ONE REGION BE GROWN IN ANOTHER? Our recommendation is to use species that are currently found in the eco-region in which you are planting. These ecoregions are regions of similar climates and elevations. Political boundaries; i.e., state lines, have no bearing on the effectiveness of a plant’s ability to grow. necessary to assist in establishment. WHY INOCULATE LEGUMES? WHY IS DIVERSITY IN A MIX IMPORTANT? A mix of several species will increase the usefulness of the site for a variety of wildlife, and will be attractive during several periods of the year. WHEN IS IT NECESSARY TO USE AN HERBICIDE FOR WEED CONTROL? The most important time to control weeds is before planting when complete vegetation control can be achieved (Roundup® or Vantage®). After seeding, a selective herbicide can be used to control certain groups of undesirable plants. Check with your local extension office. HOW DO I CONVERT U.S. SEEDING RATES TO METRIC? Inoculation involves adding a specific bacterium called rhizobia to legume seeds. Rhizobia have a beneficial relationship with legumes. When root nodules develop, these bacteria convert nitrogen gas from the air to chemical nitrogen, which is required for plant growth. HOW DO I CALIBRATE A DRILL FOR SEEDING? Calibrating a drill or broadcast seeder is dependent upon seed bulk density and required application rates. Many native and naturalized seed mixes contain a mix of large fluffy seeds and small dense seeds. Some drills have special seed boxes that can meter long fluffy seed. Many native seed mixes are planted at 10-20 lb per acre (1/4-1/2 lb per 1,000 sq ft). • Acres to hectares- multiply total acres by .4047 • Hectares to acres- multiply total hectares by 2.4710 • Kilograms to pounds- multiply total kilograms by 2.2046 • Pounds to kilograms- multiply total pounds by .4536 Therefore, 10 lb (4.536kg) per acre (.4047 hectares) equals approximately 11.20 kg per hectare. Examples of our typical seeding rates: • 10 kg per hectare equates to approximately 8.922 per acre. • 15 lb (6.80kg) per acre equates to approximately 16.82 kg per hectare 6
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