Sowing wildflower seeds without care and planning usually produces unsatisfactory results. Here are some important factors to consider:
- Does the site support plants now?
- Will there be adequate moisture during germination and establishment? Can you supply supplemental water, if necessary?
- What weed seeds are likely to be present in the soil?
Assessment of these factors will enable you to make a realistic choice of a site where wildflowers will prosper and to decide what action will be necessary to ensure your success.
Weed Control
Weed control is the biggest problem facing wildflower establishment and has no easy solution. Weed seeds are present in many situations and lie dormant, but viable, for long periods of time. A weedy area converted to wildflowers will have a large reservoir of weed seeds in the soil, ready to germinate when conditions are favorable. In most cases, it is advisable to consider weed control in two phases-as part of site preparation prior to planting, and as an important component of the post-germination maintenance program. Read more about week control in our Planting section.
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