California Native Grassland Grass Seed Mixture

Notice: Pictures are general representations of seed mixtures.  Actual results may vary due to seasonal and site conditions and cultural practices.

DESCRIPTION

California Native Grassland Grass Seed Mixture
A mixture of California native grasses that exhibit extensive root systems and grow in a wide range of soil types and conditions. It can be used in a variety of landscape situations as a low water use alternative to other turf and ground cover areas. It can be mowed or left un-mowed and grows in sun to shade exposure. Grasses in this mixture are classified as “California Friendly” by California Water Agencies and recommended for use in landscapes as a low water user.

CHARACTERISTICS

USES
• Turfgrass  • Native Grasslands  • Roadsides  • Slopes  • Golf Course Roughs  • Erosion Control  • Commercial Sites  • Medians  • Parks

Specifications: CALIFORNIA NATIVE GRASSLAND SEED MIXTURE

Molate Creeping Red Fescue (Festuca rubra ‘Molate’). Perennial, cool season, fine textured native bunch grass that also spreads by rhizomes. An attractive ornamental grass either mown or unmown. Popular for natural landscapes and low maintenance buffer areas.

Western Fescue (Festuca occidentalis) Native to California and Western U.S. A bunchgrass that grows up to 36 inches high. In sun to part shade. Deer resistant.

June Grass (Koeleria macrantha) Native to much of North America. A short, tufting perennial bunchgrass growing up to 24 inches high. Grows in full sun to full shade.

Slender Hairgrass (Deschampsia elongata) Perennial, cool season bunch grass. Native to Western North America. A densely tufted, fine textured, dark green grass that grows 24-36 inches from sun to shade exposure.

Sandberg Bluegrass (Poa secunda). Perennial, cool season, native bunchgrass that grows in sun or shade. Very drought tolerant.

SEEDING RATES
Suggested seeding rate for new establishment is 1.5 pounds per 1,000 square feet or 70 pounds per acre. Lighter rates can be used for overseeding depending on the existing stand.

ESTABLISHMENT
Best times for seeding are September through April. Summer seeding can be achieved with supplemental irrigation. 

Weed control prior to seeding is strongly recommended.
Seed-to-soil contact is critical for success either by seed drilling, hydroseeding or hand seeding with mulching.
In the absence of natural rainfall, short, frequent applications of water are necessary for 4-6 weeks. 

CULTURAL INFORMATION

Water Requirements 
The native grasses in this mixture will withstand prolonged periods of drought. If some green vegetation is desired then supplemental summer irrigation is necessary. If no summer irrigation is provided the grasses will become a dormant golden color and green up inthe fall with rainfall. It is recommended that supplemental irrigation is supplied through one summer season in order for the grasses to establish deep root systems.

Climate Conditions
This seed mixture is suitable for foothill, valley and coastal regions of California.

Soil Conditions
This mixture performs best in clay or sandy soils with a pH range of 5.5 to 8.5.

Fertilization
Use of a starter fertilizer when seeding is highly recommended. While fertilizer on native grasses is not critical it is recommended to promote growth and increase establishment. Fertilize during periods of active growth in Spring and Fall with a balanced fertilizer. Avoid using products with a high nitrogen (N) content as such use increases water usage. Apply no more than 4 pounds of N per 1,000 square feet per year.

Mowing
It is not necessary to mow this mixture but it can be mowed if a neater look is desired. Mowing height should be no lower than 2 inches. Never mow more than 1/3 of the leaf blade on a mowing cycle.

 CLICK HERE for instructions on planting and maintaining native grasses.