Seeding vs. Transplants Sowing seeds is less expensive than landscaping with transplants. However, native plants grow slowly from seed, often not blooming until the third year. The first few years are spent growing long, extensive root systems. Weeds grow quickly. This is normal, so don't be discouraged.
Transplants grow more quickly than seeds, often blooming in the first year.
Keep your costs down by buying the smallest plants available. Cut, rather than pull, weeds. Pulling weeds may damage the roots of young native plants. Pulling also disturbs the soil, encouraging weed growth. If you use seeds, keeping your landscaped area cut to 6 inches during the first year will help control weeds.