Do I Have To Water My Wildflowers?

Do I Have To Water My Wildflowers?

Your wildflower seeds will require ample moisture to germinate and develop into

A well established stand of wildflower seedlings. Supplemental watering can be gradually reduced at this stage of growth and applied only as needed.

healthy seedlings. For best results, the area should be kept moist for 4 to 6 weeks during the establishment period. If natural rainfall is inadequate, supplemental watering with a garden hose may be necessary. Light and frequent applications of water should be applied to keep the ground moist. Once your wildflowers begin to germinate do not allow the site to completely dry out but avoid over-watering the area. If the soil becomes overly saturated, the seedlings could die from the lack of oxygen supplied to the root system.

How frequently you water your newly planted area will depend on local rainfall and soil types. In the western United States you may need to water every day. In the south, central and eastern regions of the United States you may need to water every couple of days. In the southwest desert region, several waterings a day might be needed until your plants are well established.

After your seedlings are 1 to 2 inches in height, watering should be gradually reduced and applied only if the plants show signs of stress.

On larger projects that cannot be irrigated, plant in the fall or early spring during the months when rainfall is usually abundant. If adequate moisture is not received by natural rainfall and irrigation is not possible at your planting site, you may run the risk of disappointing results during a dry year.