Guidelines for Seeding Disturbed Areas

Site Preparation: It may be necessary to loosen compacted sites prior to seeding. This may include scarifying of the site with a disc, rake, subsoiler, etc. to a depth of at least 3 inches. Steep slopes should be avoided since loosened soil can easily be washed off site.

Lime and Fertilizer: Caution - Fertilizing may encourage the growth of exotic weed species and should be avoided where adequate nutrients naturally occur. A soil test is recommended to determine lime and fertilization needs. When a soil test is not practical, but poor soil fertility is anticipated, the following minimums can be used: 2 tons of agricultural lime and 1000 pounds of 6-12-12 fertilizer per treated acre. (See Table 5 to calculate Road Surface Acreage).

Seeding: Several seed mixtures can do the job. Choose a mixture which is least or non-invasive, yet provides the desired soil stabilization and other benefits. Seeding with an annual plant can often provide adequate cover for the critical first year and allow natural vegetation to further stabilize the site. Additionally, some sites will require perennial seed mixtures for long term protection, while others may require no seed at all and rely only on natural revegetation. Refer to the seeding chart for recommended seed mixtures.

Mulching: Mulch material may be needed to prevent surface compaction; hold seed, lime and fertilizer in place; reduce runoff and soil erosion; and prevent drying of seeds and seedlings. Spread mulch uniformly to cover 80-90% of the treated area. (Small grain straw and hay can be used as mulch at a rate of 1 to 1 1/5 bales per 1,000 square feet, or 50-65 bales per treated acre. Wood or bark mulch at a rate of 1,500 pounds per acre may also be used). In some cases mulch alone may be sufficient to allow natural revegetation and stabilization. (See Table 5 to calculate Road Surface Acreage).

General Guidelines:

• Loosen compacted soil except on steep slopes.
• If soil fertility is known to be poor, use 2 tons ag lime and 1000 lbs. 6-12-12 per acre.
• Use mix of annual plants to allow natural vegetation to come in after first year.
• In severe conditions use perennial mix.
  (Seeding mixtures for wet or poorly drained areas)
  (Seeding mixtures for bare or highly erodible areas)
• If required, mulch with 6 bales per 5,000 sq. to. or 50-65 bales per acre. Use 1,500 lbs. wood or bark mulch per acre.

Table 1: Temporary Species for One Year Coverage Choose one and use alone or with a perennial seed mix