Seeding

There is no single correct way to seed native vegetation and no substitute for experience. Successful planting results from getting familiar with the equipment and treating seeding as more of an art than a science—one’s way of working with natives. A wise man once said, “It won’t grow in the bag.” The message: Don’t worry too much about how to plant it. Get out there and start seeding. 

The following basic principles underlie a successful seeding operation:

• Use good seed (see “Chapter 4: Native Seed”).
• Place the seed in direct contact with the soil.
• Do not bury seed more than a quarter inch deep.
• Pack the seed tightly to the soil.
• Include necessary erosion control measures (see “Chapter 6: Erosion Control”).
• Mow weeds during the first growing season (see “Chapter 7: Weed Control”).
• Conduct prescribed burns every three to five years (see “Chapter 9: Prescribed Burning”).