We put black plastic down on about half an acre, some under trees and some of the area out in the open. Vision is a wildflower meadow, but the critical goal is low maintenance. Are we throwing down a mix of seeds in the fall? Any other suggestions for next steps? Mid-Atlantic, US
by abceasyasonetwothree
3 Comments
Sow seeds in October. Use a roller to press them into the surface of the soil to make good contact. Wait until spring. You’re done.
You might want to consult an arborist about your plans. Placing so much impermeable plastic around those trees could seriously stress them because of a lack of water making it to their surface roots.
So …you had no plan beyond “kill grass” and “throw down some seeds”?
Things you can do piecemeal that don’t involve removing the lawn:
* Widen existing flowerbeds and foundation plantings, incorporating native plants.
* Add flower beds and mixed shrub borders along the fences
* Widen the front walk and add interesting plants along the walk.
* Make a vegetable garden
* Plant some native shade trees and privacy trees
PLANNING:
1. Make a measured drawing of your property
2. List the activities you want to do out there
1. play area
2. veggie garden
3. chicken yard
4. cooking and entertaining
5. relaxing in the shade
3. Assign them logical spots with enough space for each activity
4. Make paths between the areas
Whatever is left over … and it might not be much … is where you will be planting swathes of native grasses, shrubs and flowers.
1. Find out what is native in your area
2. Find a seller (local or online)
3. buy the seeds or small plants
4. Plant them