ESTABLISHING NATIVE GRASSES AND FORBS ON BARE SOIL
Broadcast seeding is the scattering of seed over the soil surface. It is essential that steps be taken to ensure good seed to soil contact when the broadcast seeding method is used. To ensure good seed germination, broadcast seeding may not desirable if the weather is hot and dry and/or the soil moisture content is low. Do not broadcast seed on a windy day. Good site prep will save you many headaches later on, don't rush through it.
Site Preparation
- If the soil in the planting area is compacted, it could be tilled to allow water and roots to penetrate into the ground. Try to keep your distance from trees and shrubs while tilling so damage to roots is kept to a minimum.
- To reduce potential weed competition, the area can be lightly watered to germinate any existing weed seeds. The newly germinated seeds can then be killed through smothering (cover the area in black plastic for at least 6 weeks), cultivating, or herbiciding with a glyphosate (such as Round-up) or a combination of these. Be sure to wait at least a week before seeding, and consult a professional before using any chemicals near water. If weeds persist it may require several treatments before the site is ready.
- When the vegetation is dead the top inch of soil should be loosened and smoothed by raking it lightly. Too much disturbance may result in exposing additional weed seeds.
Seeding
- Because native seeds vary in size and weight it is best to mix them with an inert material for broadcasting. Slightly moistened sand, sawdust, or peat-moss (at a one to one ratio) will stick to the seeds resulting in a more even spread, make seeded areas more visible, and help extend small amounts of seed.
- Divide the seed into two parts. Broadcast the first half of the seed over the entire area while walking in one direction (e.g. north-south), at the rate specified by the seed mix.
- Broadcast the second half walking perpendicular (e.g. east-west) to your first pass. This will ensure even coverage and you won't run out of seed before you get the whole area seeded.
- If you are seeding a large area you may want to break it up into small sections.
Raking
The site should be lightly raked following seeding to ensure good seed to soil contact.
Packing
The site should be firmly packed following raking. Walk over the area, drag a board over it, or any method that works well for you. After proper packing the seedbed should barely show footprints when walked on.
Mulch
The site can be mulched following packing using a weed free straw mulch or straw erosion control blanket. Mulching should attempt to cover 90% of the exposed soil surface. This generally requires about 100 lbs. per 1,000 square feet.
Watering
Spring and summer seedings benefit from regular watering the first 4-6 weeks. Always water in the early morning, every other day for about half an hour.
