The major advantage of fall seeding is the higher percentage of germination rate in Forbs (native flowers). The effects of winter cold and extended periods of cool moisture on the seeds stimulate germination. Fall seeding in Ontario is usually done from mid-October to mid-November. Seeding earlier, during warmer fall weather may cause native grasses to sprout prematurely and "winter kill" from natural frosts.

Mix seeds with an equal or greater amount of damp filler (vermiculite, sawdust or sand). By damp we mean evenly moist but not so wet that water drips from your hand when you squeeze the material. Adding FILLER to the seed mix will increase its volume to help you achieve even coverage.

NOTE: Mix SMALL FORB Seed in a separate container and SET ASIDE.

When seeding by hand an important goal is to achieve even distribution. Mix the seeds well. Scatter slowly. Dividing your planting area and seed mix into several smaller equal sections is helpful. Any small spots missed when sowing will fill in as the planting matures.

Follow hand seeding with a light raking to mix seed & soil. A hard-tined rake may be necessary for "heavier" soils while a leaf rake may be all that’s needed on loose, sandy soils.

These seeds will now be added to the planting. Please refer to the SOWING SEED paragraph again. These seeds need light to germinate. DO NOT rake small Forb seeds - sow seeds on the soil surface after raking in other seed.

Mowing will be the primary management tool to prevent annual weeds and other species from shading native seedlings. During the first growing season the planting will need mowing several times. The minimum cutting height should be (10-13 cm or 4-5 in). Mow each time the weed growth is (15-25 cm or 6-10 in) high and DO NOT ALLOW weeds to set seed. Try to time the last mowing so weeds can grow (20 cm or 8 in) before winter. Perennial weeds may still cause problems. Appropriate herbicides, "Round-up" applied selectively with a backpack sprayer or a wick applicator is the best way of preventing these aggressive species from becoming a problem. Schedule spot spraying 4-6 hours per month, more during the active growing season, (spring).

Species can also be added in the following fall to enhance the diversity of the site. Another method to increase diversity is to plant mature plugs. This is recommended for adding rare species or those that are difficult to grow from field-sown seed. Species should be selected that are appropriate to the growing conditions of the site. Strive for continuous colour, (spring, summer, & fall blooms).

After two full growing seasons, the plant native meadow will then need to be burned/mowed every other year for the next several years to become well established. Please note; mature prairie meadows with no serious weed problems may only need burning once every 3-4 years. Burning in March or April will stimulate growth of the native species, giving them a competitive edge over weeds. Please be sure to rake up litter as this will shade new native seedlings. Check the local fire regulations and obtain permits. A fire safety plan should be implemented at the site even if you are not going to use burn management.

Your native wildflower meadow incorporates all of the following types of gardens:

• PRAIRIE GARDEN - significant to the restoration of Canada’s native grasslands.
• ABORIGINAL GARDEN- Native North Americans used plants for medicine, food, fiber, dyes and ceremonies.
• WILDLIFE GARDEN- creates habitat and food for birds and other local wildlife.
• BUTTERFLY GARDEN- plant species that will necessitate all life stages of the butterfly. Plants on which to lay eggs, food plants for the larvae and nectar sources for adult butterflies.