A visitor to the prairie grass

[Doc_Bob]

The DNR would have paid for part of the seed, but I didn't want to enter the program. I'd contact your agency and see if they have a program. Access to the planter was key. Our poor soil didn't seem to be a problem. I do think I need to burn, instead of mowing.

My friends tell me that the DNR dictates the type of seed? My neighbor wanted a "nicer" prairie (more colors) as opposed to a more native prairie that the DNR dictates.
Bob

 

[Doc_Bob]

II made a mistake by not completely killing the fiscue. No farm service would try to get to such a small field. I purchased a 3pt sprayer, but didn't do the best of jobs. The grasses have done well, but not the wild flowers. Last fall, I called the DNR, to see what I should be doing. My contact had moved to the US Fish & Wildlife service, but he came back to give me some help.

Basically, he had me plow and plant winter wheat as a fire break around the edge of the field. I was to do a burn in late Feburary, then apply Roundup as soon as the remain fescue started to green up. I wasn't apply to do the burn (long story), so I ended up mowing the field in April. I'll try to do a burn next year.

I have been told that prep of the ground is key. Looks like that is what you are saying?
Bob

 

[lhfarm]

I have been told that prep of the ground is key. Looks like that is what you are saying?
Bob

Sorry for the delay, been out of town. In my case the goal was to make the field wildlife friendly, so I needed/need to get rid of the non-native grasses. The native grasses don't seem to need much prep. They seem to thrive in poor soil and tolerate drought conditions. I think proper planting is the key.

I'd call Sharp Brothers and talk to them. They were very helpful and make make recommendations for your area. They suggested wild flowers to add to our mix, in addition to package of grasses.