Getting Creative with Wildflower Plantings

In this episode, Jon Teater (Whitetail Landscapes) and Travis Harmon (Creative Habitat) discuss the current state of the weather and why you are not behind if you have not started preparing for or developing a meadow or wildflowers mix on the landscape. Travis discusses the ideal time to seed plants to achieve success this time of year. Travis explains the importance of chemicals and burning. Travis identifies why it's extremely important to reduce weed competition early to support our warm season plantings.

Travis explains more about seed germination, the importance of a sterile seed bed and managing the existing seed bank is essential as more broadleaf plants develop over time. Jon discusses the method of planting a pollinator blend versus a meadow and how they should be laid out. Why soil samples are not the top of the list of activities for Travis when he is creating his habitat layouts.  

Travis and Jon discuss the use of herbicides and burning, and why discing is a bad idea to establish pollinator plantings. Travis explains the significance of moisture and timing of plantings to ensure plants take root and become well contacted with the soil. Travis explains the mix he would use to create habitat for bees and butterflies and attraction for deer. Travis details what seeds he would not plant in his blends. Jon discusses how to handle deer populations and their preferences as well as strategies to keep your deer away from specific areas.

Travis explains the minimal maintenance that is required to keep weeds at bay. Travis explains why mowing may be a better option than burning a wildflower area. Travis explains how wildflowers used in a hunting design can create separation from neighbors that may or may not align with hunting and harvest goals.  Travis suggests that listeners think more about transforming their yard and save money from less mowing.

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