Planting a Grassy Meadow

With all this rain in the Santa Fe area, and other parts of New Mexico, David Salman says now is a good time to plant native grasses and meadows of wildflowers...

Liatris punctata
Item # 63750 		Liatris punctata
Gayfeather

each $5.99
3 to 6 plants $5.79
7 or more $5.59

Item # 99580 		'The Western Trails' Native Grass Seed Mix

1 lb. bag $21.95

Item # 99590 		'The Western Trails' Wildflower Seed Mix

each $11.95
Buchloe dactyloides 'Prestige™'Buffalo Grass
Item # 27053 		Buchloe dactyloides Prestige™ Buffalo Grass
Prestige™ Buffalo Grass

1 to 3 flats $44.95
4 to 12 flats $42.95
13 to 24 flats $40.95
25 or more $38.95
  • Topic: Grasses and Lawns
  • Author: Cindy Bellinger
  • Keywords: grasses, meadows, wildflowers, santa fe, summer
  • Date: August 2006

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With all this rain in the Santa Fe area, and other parts of New Mexico (and let’s count our blessings), David Salman says now is a good time to plant native grasses and meadows of wildflowers. “You want to take advantage of all this moisture,” he said.

We have several different varieties and mixes of seeds online and in our Garden Center story. Two of the favorites are the Native Grass Seed Mix and the Native Grass Wildflower Seed Mix.

Also, David suggests using this natural precipitation for sowing areas that experienced a loss of piñon trees. Further, he recommends planting Buffalo Grass Plugs now.

Following are a few reminders for planting grasses and wildflower seeds.

Preparing the Soil

Most native grass seeds adapt well to poor soils making soil enrichment unnecessary. However, improving sandy soil prior helps it hold more water. Then loosen soil to a depth of 3-4 inches; then comb the soil with a rake, leaving some to the side to cover the seeds.

Preparing the Seed and Sowing

Mix seed with moist sand in a ratio of 1 part sand, 2 parts seed. This helps sow the seed evenly. Broadcast the mixture by hand. Then use the flat side of a rake to smooth the soil over the seeds. Top-dress with a thin layer of mulch to retain moisture and keep birds from eating the seed.

Watering and Germination

After sowing, if the rains stop, water with a fine spray. A few days later, water to a depth of 4-6 inches. Be prepared to water twice daily, morning and evening. Each time, water enough to keep the top inch of the soil damp. Continue twice daily watering until the grass has germinated.

Warm night temperatures and moist soil help grasses germinate, usually within 7 to 10 days. If the seeds have not germinated within 15 days, it may be necessary to re-sow.

Maintenance

Once established, native grass is very drought tolerant and you can fertilize with a
single application of Gro-Power 5-3-1 or Yum Yum Mix early this fall.