Preparing a seedbed for sowing wildflower seeds
How to prepare the ground for sowing wildflower seeds?
Preparing a 'stale' seedbed
A stale or false seedbed is a weed management practice. A seedbed is created a number of weeks before sowing, allowing weed seeds just below the soil surface to germinate. The young weeds can then be eradicated before sowing your seed.
A well-prepared seed bed, free of weeds, grass and other plants can optimise germination, survival rate and will determine the success of your wildflowers.
- Begin the process by eradicating grass, weeds and any other plants from the area you plan to sow.
- Loosen, or lightly turn the soil over to a depth of about 4 inches.
- Level the soil off with a rake or harrow and compact the soil using a roller or walking all over. This will increase germination.
- When the weeds and grass has germinated the young plants (weeds/grass) should be eradicated.
- Carry out this process 1-3 times depending on the rate of unwanted plants.
Creating a seedbed free of grass, weeds and other plants will ensure your wildflowers don't need to compete for space, moisture and sunlight.
