Also Cities and Municipalities, Public and Private Agencies, Landowners, Farmers and Homeowners in the Pacific Northwest.
GUIDELINES FOR ESTABLISHING NATIVES FROM SEED
A primary benefit of seeding natives is the low cost compared to transplants, cuttings and other forms of plant propagation. Successfully seeding natives is not a simple process. “Johnny Apple Seed” broadcasting seed randomly along a forest road works in fairytales but is not a best management practice (BMP) to establish seeds in upland, riparian or wetland sites. Competition for sunlight, soil and moisture from broadleaf and grassy weeds, domestic turf and forage crops is the most limiting factor to successful native seed establishment. Cultural and management practices to encourage native seed establishment are highly recommended. Once fully established natives species may dominate a specific region, ecological province, watershed or mitigation site. The key is site preparation pre and post establishment to encourage and enhance native seed establishment.