FAQ

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• When is the best time to plant FESCUE or other cool season grasses? Garden Lawn Seed

  The ideal time to plant fescue and other cool season grasses is in the fall, but they can also be planted in early spring.

• When and what do you spray for bagworms? Garden General

  The best time to spray bagworms is in early summer, while they are still actively moving and feeding.  Bagworms can be controlled with a wide variety of affordable chemicals such as permethrin, bifenthrin, and even neem oil if a more organic approach is desired.  Those that are oil based tend to have a longer residual, however, multiple applications may be required in some infestations.

• How do I plant wildflower seeds? Garden Seed Wildflowers

  Planting wildflower seeds is best done in late fall or early spring, in areas of moderate to good sun exposure.

  Lightly cultivate site, spread seed, then rake topsoil to insure good seed to soil contact.

  Use care that seed is no more than 1/4” deep to promote best emergence.

  Water thoroughly and keep consistently moist until wildflowers begin to grow.

  Ideally dormant growth should be left standing over winter to shelter pollinators. If maintenance must be done, for proper reseeding, mow or roll plants after they have matured completely, allowing the clippings to remain on the seedbed.

  Always use caution when applying herbicides, consider the possible effects on future and growing wildflowers.

• What is the difference between hulled and unhulled seeds? Garden Lawn Seed Wildflowers

  Hulled and unhulled seeds refer to whether the seed coat (the protective outer layer of the seed) has been removed or not:

  1. Hulled Seeds: Hulled seeds have had their outer seed coat removed. This process is often done to make the seeds easier to handle, sow, and germinate. Removing the hull can also speed up the germination process because it eliminates a barrier that the emerging seedling would otherwise need to penetrate.
  2. Unhulled Seeds: Unhulled seeds retain their outer seed coat. These seeds are in their natural state and have not undergone any processing to remove the hull. Unhulled requires longer to germinate but is more hardy and less likely to sprout pre-maturely.

  The choice between hulled and unhulled seeds for planting depends on various factors such as the specific plant species, growing conditions, and personal preference. In some cases, hulled seeds may be preferred for their ease of handling and faster germination, while in other cases, unhulled seeds may be chosen for their natural state and potential resilience.

• What is seed coating? Garden General Lawn Seed Wildflowers

  Seed coating involves applying a protective layer or treatment to seeds before planting. This coating can serve several purposes:

  1. Protection: Seed coatings protect seeds from environmental stressors such as extreme temperatures, drought, pathogens, and pests. They act as a barrier, shielding the seeds from adverse conditions during germination and early growth stages.
  2. Enhanced Germination: Some seed coatings contain substances that promote germination by providing essential nutrients, hormones, or microbial inoculants. These additives can improve seedling vigor and establishment, leading to better overall crop performance.
  3. Disease and Pest Control: Seed coatings may incorporate fungicides, insecticides, or nematicides to protect seeds from soil-borne pathogens, pests, and nematodes. This helps prevent seed and seedling damage, reducing the risk of crop loss due to diseases and pests.
  4. Uniformity and Handling: Coating seeds can improve their uniformity in size, shape, and weight, making them easier to handle, sow, and plant with precision using mechanized equipment. Additionally, seed coatings may include colorants or dyes for easier visual identification during planting.

  Seed coating formulations vary depending on the specific needs of the crop, environmental conditions, target pests and diseases, and desired agronomic outcomes. Common coating materials include polymers, clays, binders, nutrients, biological agents, and synthetic or natural pesticides.