FALL - GREAT TIME TO SEED PERENNIAL WILDFLOWERS
If establishing a new planting, start by removing existing vegetation. This can be done by spraying Roundup, then burning the residual dead material or mowing close to the ground, very close. Scratch the soil surface with a rake, broadcast seeds, then lightly rake again taking care not to cover the seed too deeply. In existing plantings remove ground litter. Raking usually works best. No matter the method, the idea is to get some bare soil exposed. Broadcast seeds or place in specific areas then lightly rake as with a new planting, again taking care not to cover the seed too deeply. Seed should be no more than 1/4 inch deep. Good seed/soil contact is important.
I have had good results with fall planting. Species I have planted this way and had bloom are: Liatris, pale purple coneflower, ashy sunflower, grayhead prairie coneflower, rattlesnake master, maximillian sunflower, senna, indian paintbrush and pitcher's sage.
Any of the perennial wildflowers and native legumes can be planted in the fall with excellent results, with some exceptions germination will not be until next spring. Annuals can also be planted in the fall. some will germinate and form a rosette through the winter then bloom next spring. Try fall planting.
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