Create a Prairie Garden This Spring

A no-mow landscape that gives you more time to relax

A residential prairie or prairie garden is a smaller site (typically 1/4 acre or larger) that has been planted with native grasses, sedges, and wildflowers. Because native prairie flowers and grasses are almost exclusively perennials, they return to bloom year after year. The best time to establish a prairie garden is in spring. The soil is starting to warm up, and anything you plant will have months to grow and establish roots before winter.

Benefits of a Prairie Garden

There are many benefits to planting a prairie garden, including:

• Low maintenance: Once established, a prairie garden requires very little maintenance. You won't need to mow, water, or fertilize it.
• Attracts wildlife: Prairie gardens are a great way to attract birds, butterflies, and other wildlife to your yard.
• Good for the environment: Prairie gardens help to improve air and water quality, and they can also help to reduce erosion.

How to Create a Prairie Garden

Creating a prairie garden is easy. Here are the steps:

1. Choose a sunny location with well-drained soil. 2. Prepare the soil by removing any weeds or debris. 3. Sow the seeds in the fall or spring. 4. Water the seeds lightly. 5. Keep the soil moist until the seeds germinate. 6. Once the seedlings have emerged, you can thin them out to about 12 inches apart. 7. Water the plants deeply during dry spells. 8. Enjoy your beautiful prairie garden!

Additional Resources

• Prairie Moon Nursery
• The Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center
• National Wildlife Federation: Create a Prairie Garden