A Pollinator Wildflower Mix is specifically designed to attract and support a diverse array of pollinators—including bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds—by providing a continuous supply of nectar and pollen throughout the growing season. These mixes typically include a variety of native and nectar-rich species that are well-suited to local growing conditions.
While the mix varieties may vary, some of the most common varieties are Black-Eyed Susan (Rudbeckia hirta), Purple Coneflower (Echinacea purpurea), Lance-Leaved Coreopsis (Coreopsis lanceolata), Plains Coreopsis (Coreopsis tinctoria), Wild Bergamot (Monarda fistulosa), New England Aster (Symphyotrichum novae-angliae), Partridge Pea (Chamaecrista fasciculata), Butterfly Milkweed (Asclepias tuberosa), Wild Lupine (Lupinus perennis), Wild Columbine (Aquilegia canadensis), Wild Indigo (Baptisia australis), Wild Geranium (Geranium maculatum), Wild Ginger (Asarum canadense), Wild Strawberry (Fragaria virginiana), Wild Violet (Viola sororia), Sweet Black-Eyed Susan (Rudbeckia subtomentosa), White Prairie Clover (Dalea candida), and Wild Bergamot (Monarda fistulosa).
This selection ensures a vibrant and long-lasting display, providing essential nectar sources for various pollinator species and enhancing the ecological value of gardens and landscapes. The wildflower bed will grow to a height of 4-60 inches under normal conditions.
- 1/4 ounce sows approximately 31 square feet.
- Seeding rate: 23 pounds per acre depending on density desired.
Pollinator Mix Growing Guide
Outdoor Sowing
- Timing: Sow seeds in early spring after the danger of frost has passed, or in late fall for natural stratification over winter. This mix is designed to provide nectar and pollen sources for pollinators throughout the growing season.
- Location: Choose a sunny area with well-draining soil. This mix thrives in full sun, attracting a variety of pollinators like bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds.
- Soil Preparation: Loosen the soil to a depth of 2-4 inches and remove weeds. Adding compost can improve soil fertility, but the mix adapts well to a variety of soil conditions.
- Seeding:
- Mix seeds with sand or a carrier for even distribution.
- Broadcast seeds evenly over the prepared area.
- Lightly rake or press seeds into the soil surface without burying, as many wildflower seeds require light to germinate.
- Watering: Water immediately after sowing to ensure good soil-seed contact. Keep the soil evenly moist during germination and establishment.
General Care Tips
- Sunlight: This mix thrives in full sun but can tolerate partial shade depending on the species in the mix.
- Watering: Water regularly during the establishment phase. Once established, this mix is moderately drought-tolerant but will benefit from occasional watering during dry spells.
- Weed Control: Remove weeds during early growth to reduce competition and promote healthy wildflower development.
- Fertilizing: Fertilizing is not typically necessary. Over-fertilization can encourage weed growth at the expense of wildflowers.
- Pruning: Deadhead spent blooms to encourage continuous flowering. Allow some flowers to set seed for natural reseeding and to support wildlife.
Additional Information
- Seed Coverage: 1/4 ounce covers approximately 31 square feet. Adjust coverage based on your desired seeding density.
- Seeding Rate: Use 23 pounds per acre depending on the desired density.
- Blooming: Expect a vibrant and continuous display throughout the growing season, with mature plants reaching a height of 30-40 inches under normal conditions.
- Pollinator-Friendly: This mix is designed to attract and support a variety of pollinators, providing essential nectar and pollen sources throughout the growing season.
