Ecological Landscaping
Native ecosystems have many secrets every landscaper can learn from. Each plant has a specific set of growing conditions (moisture, amount of sunlight, amount of competition) under which it will thrive. Assess the site before choosing species and choose those that are adapted to the site. Or, the site can be altered; remove topsoil to make it drier or add organic matter to make it moister. Growing plants where they are not adapted will not lend to a low-maintenance landscape.
Mother Nature doesn't like bare ground; so cover her! Many weed seeds are triggered to germinate by sunlight, so make sure bare soil is not exposed. Use a component of grasses with any wildflower mix to shade the ground in between the wildflower plants.
Pollinators
Creating habitat for the bison and elk to roam in a landscaping project may not be practical. However, other wildlife species including our native pollinators are at risk as well. For many of these species, a landscaping project may provide quality habitat. All of our landscaping seed mixes will benefit native pollinators; each mix contains flowers that produce nectar spring through fall. For added emphasis on pollinator populations, use the Butterfly and Hummingbird Mix.
Getting Started
Getting rid of existing vegetation and seeds in the soil is usually the most important step to ensure a successful wildflower planting from seed. For more information check out our planting timeline.
Wildflower seeds need to go through a cold, moist period before they will germinate; so plant in winter or see our stratification guide.
New construction sites and steep slopes are considered critical areas. See special instructions for these areas in our critical area treatment..
Visit our guides page for more tips and solutions. |
