Our Frequently Asked Questions
The best time to plant seed is just before several days of light to moderate rainfall. Depending on the year, the window for planting can be any time between September to February. The most effective strategy is to put the seed in the soil a few days before s a 5 to 7 day period of rain. After planting, check the top .5 inches for good surface soil moisture. If there are no rains for two weeks after seeding, light irrigation will be necessary to continue the early growth stage of the seed.
Once established, many native plants will not need irrigation. However, we recommend irrigating the planting area for the first one to two years of establishment. Once the roots are deep enough to hit the water table, they will be able to draw up groundwater and irrigation should no longer be necessary. If you choose to start in November, it is best to apply water every other day. December through February you can water every 3rd day. Of course, if you get natural rainfall you can skip the days that you get .25 inches of rain or more. It usually takes about 6 to 10 weeks to get the new seedings started and on their way.
The best time to do weed control is before sowing your native seeds. We recommend doing a year or more of weed control before planting your native seed. See our hand seeding instructions here for more information.
You can apply a thin layer of wood or straw mulch immediately after seeding to protect the seeds during their most vulnerable state during germination.
You are always welcome to stop by on the side of the road on County Road 88 to see our blooms. Please do not enter the fields if you come on your own. If you would like to set up a private or group tour please email info@hedgerowfarms.com or call (510) 551-5786 to schedule a visit.
Please visit our ecommerce partner Nature’s Seed.
