All seeds, including wildflowers, need ample moisture to germinate and to develop into healthy seedlings. In non-irrigated situations, plant in the spring or before periods of anticipated rainfall. After seedlings are established, watering may be reduced depending on climate and rainfall. If weeds are present, remember that they benefit from moisture as much as the wildflowers and may dominate overwatered areas. Fertilization Do not fertilize wildflowers unless the soil is extremely depleted of nutrients.
Fertilizers encourage weed growth and lush foliage rather than flowers.
In addition to adding nutrients, organic materials enhance soil texture and encourage beneficial microorganisms. Weed Control Weed control is one of the biggest problems facing wildflower establishment and one which has no easy solution. Weed seeds may lie dormant in soil for many years. A weedy area converted to wildflowers will have a large reservoir of weed seeds in the soil which may germinate if conditions are favorable. For additional weed control, a soil fumigant may be used, or the area may be irrigated to encourage weed growth and then sprayed with a general herbicide.