|
Sun, Mar 28, 10 at 10:51
| My mowed hiking trail is 600' in length and 4' wide. There is good-quality mesic prairie on one side of the trail, but the other side is more old field that has some natives but many weeds as well. I like to keep my trail mowed, it does have some seasonably moist spots, and there is more exposed soil than I would like. I am just looking to keep some sort of cover that will keep the weeds out and stabilize the soil, that will not pose a threat to the prairie plantings. Is there a native grass that could serve the purpose and handle the routine mowing? I may just seed it with Lolium multiflorum (annual rye) because it is inexpensive and easy to grow, but I'd need to do that each spring. I'm not sure what to do & looking for other ideas? Thank you... |
Follow-Up Postings:
|
| My first vote would be buffalo grass, Buchloe dactyloides. The USDA shows it as hardy in your area (WI). Three things that buffalo grass needs (in KS, anyhow) is 1) heavier soil (doesn't like sandy or sandy loam), 2) to be mowed at 2-3" when indeed mowed (maxes at about 5-6"), but initially mowed consistently to stifle weeds and to allow thorough establishment - which usually takes two to three repeated years. NO fertilizers as that often promotes the weeds and forbs more than the buffalo. Buffalo does not like weed killers, either. A true natural that was here before we were. hortster |
Here is a link that might be useful: USDA website
Please Note: Only registered members are able to post messages to this forum. If you are a member, please log in. If you aren't yet a member, join now!
Return to the Meadows & Prairies Forum
Instructions
- You must be a registered member and logged in to post messages on our forums.
- Posting is a two-step process. Once you have composed your message, you will be taken to the preview page. You will then have a chance to review the contents and make changes.
- After posting your message, you may need to refresh the forum page in order to see it.
- It is illegal to post copyrighted material without the owner's consent.
- HTML codes are allowed in the message field only.
- No advertising is allowed in any of the forums.
- If you would like to practice posting or uploading photos, please visit our Test forum.
- If you need assistance, please Contact Us and we will be happy to help.