Plan Ahead for Planting Success


If you’re anything like us, you’re thinking about planting and landscaping plans all year ‘round. It may be cold now, but if you’re interested in planting a new prairie, planning ahead will increase your probability of success substantially. There are several factors to think about when planning including water availability, soil quality, weed pressure, and the intended purpose.

 

Site Conditions

Soil health is an important factor to consider before planting any species. Healthy soils are better able to retain moisture and provide nutrients. Poor soils will likely require higher inputs to get new plants established. A soil test can help determine whether any amendments or fertilizer is necessary. Determining what is needed before seeding will reduce workload once seed is in the ground.

In a new prairie, another factor in good establishment is moisture availability. Ensuring adequate moisture levels throughout germination is vital to success. In areas with hot, dry conditions, consider the accessibility to supplemental watering. After seed has sprouted, it is best to water deeply and infrequently to stimulate root growth and avoid promoting the germination of opportunistic weeds until plants are etablished. 

 

Competition from Other Plants

Weed pressure is one of the most common causes of failure when seeding prairie grasses and wildflowers. In weedier areas, competitive cool-season grasses and annual weeds (that produce vast amounts of seed) should be eliminated ahead of planting. This truly can be the difference between a failure and a success. After a prairie has had 2-3 full years of growth to establish, controlled burn in spring(March-April) can be used to control persistent weeds and small trees while stimulating the warm-season natives. Be sure to acquire proper permits and always follow local laws. For more weed control options read: Effective Weed Control Strategies

 

Site Preparation

Depending on the purpose (natural landscaping, pasture, pollinator habitat, etc.) preparation and planting may look a little different from site to site, but preparation and patience are key no matter if you’re planting a tallgrass prairie or a wildflower meadow. Starting a season or a year in advance will give you the best chance of long-term success. Find our site prep articles below. 

Remember, planning ahead can save you time and ensure your native seeding project is off to a strong start!

 

 

Last updated: 09/15/2026