Mesic species. Prefers moderately well to poorly drained soil. Minimal
Provides habitat for small mammals. Vegetative parts are palatable to grazing
Fibrous, wide spreading root system can stabilize upper shoreline zones,
streambanks, upland slope buffers, and vegetated swales. Also a good pioneer
Availability, Establishment, and Maintenance
Seed is widely available from commercial vendors.
Seeding is recommended. Seed germination is better if seeds are stratified
for one month at 32o F. Best germination of seed occurs if they are drilled
into soil to a depth of 1-1.5 inches.
Rangeland drill or hopper type seed broadcaster may be used to plant
seeds. If broadcasting, seeds must be covered lightly with soil. Mixing seed
with sand and other grass and forb species dispersed with a hand hopper or
cyclone spreader facilitates establishment of prairie species in small areas.
One source recommends planting at 0.5 to 1.0 lbs/acre because the species
is too short-lived and expensive to plant at a heavier rate. A complete stand
will result in two to three years if planted at this rate.
Spreads quickly from seed but dies back after a few years.