It's Time to Grow

Alright, most likely if you are reading this entry you've received the Popcorn Initiative spring mail out. So below find the directions on how to plant your wild flower seeds that you've received. I'm planting mine tomorrow. I'd love to see some photos of what you grow. Happy planting and happy spring.

It may sound obvious enough, but choosing the most advantageous site on your property is a very important determinant in the eventual success of your wildflower garden. The most important factors to consider in this regard are the amount of average daily sunlight, the relative quality of the soil, and the accessibility to a water source like a hose or a sprinkler.

Though many wildflowers do tolerate some filtered shade - and a few actually thrive in it - the vast majority are definitely sun-lovers and will likely demonstrate the strongest bloom where exposure is greatest (especially in the morning). Therefore, the general rule of thumb when considering the optimum planting site on your property is 'the more sun the better'. This naturally means that areas with little or no tree coverage and as little obstruction from any structure such as a house, garage, or barn are best.

Soil too is sometimes a consideration when planting wildflowers, but it's important to keep in mind that wildflowers will generally sprout in all but the most difficult conditions. This means that pampering your site with fertilizer or rich sod is not usually necessary. In fact, doing so can sometimes achieve the opposite result by inviting unwanted weeds and grasses. Only in the poorest of conditions, where the soil is literally sterile, is using an accelerant advisable.

Lastly, when choosing the best site for your seed installation, the availability of a steady watering source is helpful, but not usually necessary. In most regions and during most seasons, natural rainfall will be sufficient to provide the water necessary for a successful bloom. However, if you live in a particularly arid region, are planting during drier months, or are simply experiencing prolonged drought, it will definitely be to your advantage to water your site every other day or so for the first few weeks after planting until root growth is established.

Now all you need to do is clear the area of existing weeds or growth and to loosen the soil. You can do this simply with a rake, hoe or shovel. Work the soil as best you can, of course you'll get some weeds sprouting along with your flowers.

Next, you want to sow your seeds. Simply scatter the seeds evenly over the area or in the pot you wish to plant. This can be done by putting the seeds in your hand or just shaking out of the envelope. After you get your seeds sowed lightly compress your seeds into the soil. Don't push them down any further than 1/2 inch. You just want to protect them from the birds and winds. An easy way to do this is by pressing them in with your hands or feet - just keep the pressure light.

Now you are ready to watch them grow, I hope...