In order to most effectively begin your Conservation Reserve Program (CRP) project, you will need to establish a solid protocol for mowing your grass from the start, typically beginning in June. The seeds we plant need lots of heat, sun, and moisture in order to germinate. The soil temperature needs to stay above 65 degrees […]
Warm Season Grass Establishment Mowing Is Critical to Stand Success Read More »
Native plants occur naturally in a particular region and have adapted to the climates and soil from these local habitats. By nature, these plants are accustomed to growing in even the most difficult circumstances and can take the nutrients they need directly from the soil. Their robust nature means native crops often do not have
Do Your Native Seeds Need Fertilizer? Read More »
Commonly associated with hay fever, the Stiff Goldenrod actually doesn’t have wind-blown pollen and therefore isn’t the source of your sniffles! Instead, these hearty wildflowers are adaptable and a favorite of birds and butterflies. Plant characteristics A perennial plant, stiff goldenrod has green leaves, yellow blooms, and can grow between three and six feet tall.
Plant of the month – Stiff Goldenrod
(Solidago Rigida) Read More »
Known as a legume type of wildflower, Purple Prairie Clover is able to capture nitrogen from the air and uses its natural bacteria to fertilize the soil. The most widespread of the Prairie Clover, this plant is a favorite of pollinators including bees, butterflies and other insects. This native clover is a key component of
Plant of the month – Purple Prairie Clover (Dalea purpurea) Read More »
Native plants play a critical role in creating a balanced ecosystem and by planting them on your CRP land you’re helping the local environment thrive. These plants aid in climate control, regulate pest populations and improve soil conditions. The benefits of these native plants to both people and wildlife are great and varied. Below are
Why Choose Native Plants Read More »
Chemical control with herbicides has been an important tool for managing weeds for many years. A strong herbicide plan is essential in controlling your weed population-maximizing your CRP establishment success. The tips below will help you build a successful CRP establishment plan. 1. Positively ID weed species Determining the weeds that create the most problems
10 Steps to Choosing the Herbicide That’s Right For You Read More »
Monardo fistulosa, better known as wild bergamot or bee balm, is a wildflower belonging to the mint family. This perennial can be found throughout much of North America in thickets, clearings, and dry fields. Wild bergamot can easily be identified by its summer-blooming flowers that typically range from pink to lavender (though they can also be white). These flowers produce a strong fragrance (as well as a potent taste
Adding Wild Bergamot to Your CRP Read More »
Bouteloua gracilis, more commonly referred to as “blue grama”, is a popular warm-season perennial grass. As the widest distributed of all grama grasses, it can be found throughout the Midwest and Plains region, as well as states like California, Florida, and Maine. Despite the name, it is typically green, turning gold towards the end of the year. Additionally, it bears distinct comb-like floral spikes that can range from green to a reddish-purple. When fully grown, blue
Blue Grama – Great for Erosion Control and Grazing Read More »
Elymus canadensis, better known as Canada wildrye or Canadian wildrye, is a cool-season perennial bunchgrass found throughout most of the US. It is especially common in plains areas, though it can also be found in woodlands, dunes, and savannas. In addition to thriving in a variety of soil types, it’s also shade tolerant. Canada wildrye can grow between 2.5 to 6 feet tall. When fully grown, it features thick seed heads with long, thin
Canada Wildrye – A Bunchgrass That’s Great for Erosion Control Read More »
Dalea pupurea is a flowering legume better known as purple prairie clover. Its name comes from its vivid purple flower petals. Purple prairie clover can be found naturally across much of the United States, and it is especially common across the Great Plains and surrounding prairie lands. Thanks to its stunning purple petals and distinct cone-like flower head, it’s also regularly used in manmade locales such as parks, recreation areas, gardens,
Purple Prairie Clover – A Vibrant, Pollinator-Friendly Addition for CRP Read More »