Instructions for hand sowing seeds.
1. Prepare a firm, weed-free seed bed.
2. Hand spread the seed at a rate of about 50-100 seeds per square foot
3. Firm the seed into the soil with a roller or the back of a hoe for small areas. The seed must be on or near the surface to germinate. Seeds that fall deeper than ¼ inch will not germinate.
4. Water the bed thoroughly. A thin straw mulch is beneficial. Do not mulch with heavy organic material such as shredded hardwood or tree leaves.
5. Keep the bed moist (water twice a week for a total of one inch of water) for the first 6 weeks. Water during dry weather (no rain for 7 or more days) for the remainder of the first growing season.
6. Annual weeds will likely germinate with the wildflowers. Keep the weeds cut at a height of 4 inches during the first growing season. Pulling weeds is not recommended as it will dislodge the wildflower seedlings.
7. These are perennial wildflowers that will mostly not bloom until the 2nd or 3rd year. Please be patient. Once established, they will last many years with minimal maintenance.
8. Long term maintenance includes removal of the previous year’s growth during the dormant season and removal of invasive plants.
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