How To Plant & Care For Wildflowers

When planting wildflowers, there are two times of the year that are the most ideal: from the first of March through the end of May, or from the first of October through the middle of November. Fall plantings will usually lie dormant through the winter and germinate in the spring.

To avoid competition, completely clear the area that you plan to plant. This can be done by spraying with an herbicide, tilling, pulling or a combination of these. To maintain a beautiful wildflower bed or site of any kind, weed control must be a permanent part of the program.

Use the recommended rate on the seed tag, which will be sufficient to provide an adequate stand of wildflowers on a well prepared soil with weed control and proper moisture. Higher seeding rates and supplemental water are recommended when adequate soil preparation is impossible, or high density stands are desired.

Broadcast seeds lightly and then rake in, cover seeds no more than 2 to 3 times their thickness. If seeds are drilled, the maximum depth should be ¼".

Newly planted wildflowers must be kept moist for at least 4 to 6 weeks until the seedlings are well established. Up to 1 inch of supplemental water per week may be required under arid conditions for establishment.

Wildflowers require the same special care that any other ornamental or decorative planting requires. Weeding and watering are musts if you want to enjoy your wildflowers to the fullest.