Hey everyone! I'm looking to transform a section of my yard into a native plant or pollinator area. I live in Zone 6b near Pittsburgh, and I've got this patch of dirt that's about 100 feet across and 10 feet deep, and I'm not too keen on planting grass there. Behind it is a lovely wall of yellow forsythia, and I want to focus on using as many native plants as I can. I've come across those wildflower seed bags at places like Lowe's, but I'm hesitant to use them since I'm worried they won't have the native plants suited for my zone. Has anyone tried this before? Any suggestions would be much appreciated!
3 Answers
You should check out the PA Native Plant Society. They're a fantastic resource for getting started with native planting. Their website has a list of native plants, gardening tips, and even local events where you can get native plants for free. Definitely worth a look!
I'd avoid those big-box "wildflower" mixes; they often include non-native species. Look for native plant nurseries instead, as they offer better mixes suited for your region. Just a heads up, many native plant seeds need a winter period to break dormancy, so timing is key! If you have anything growing there, make sure to clear it first. If you get established plants, you'll have a better chance of blooms in the first year.
For wildflower seeds, here’s what I do: I scalp the area with a lawnmower or weed eater in the fall. Then I rake out an even layer of composted cow manure, spread the seeds, and step on them lightly to get them into the soil. Make sure to water the area well after that and then just wait! It's better to look for a native seed mix specific to your area.
Thanks for the tip! I’ll make sure to clear the area first and look into local nurseries for native options.