Planting fields for pollinators - Ask Extension
I have a 5.5 acre former pasture in Cloverdale I would like to convert to a pollinators field. The pasture is only sand with a very thin layer (1/2&...
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Planting fields for pollinators #874972
Asked June 27, 2024, 1:32 PM EDT
I have a 5.5 acre former pasture in Cloverdale I would like to convert to a pollinators field. The pasture is only sand with a very thin layer (1/2") of weeds, moss, grass type vegetative material. Irrigation is not available for this pasture. Field receives full sun. This field has been mowed for years as I am close to public campground and am concerned about fires. I am seeing a lot of erosion lately. My hope is to help control erosion, stabilize the sand, feed the pollinators and have a beautiful field as a benefit. Can you recommend a seed mixture that will work in my area. By seed mixture I am referring to what percentage of what type of seed I need to include. A premixed perfect seed mix would be great but I expect I will be buying each type of seed in bulk and mixing as I go.
One of my considerations for this field is I host a family reunion end of July-first week of August that uses the field for camping. Would prefer to be able to cut field prior to that event.
Thank you
Tillamook County Oregon
Expert Response
Thank you for your question.
Here is a link to the Xerces Society (pollinators) Northwest Meadows site - https://www.xerces.org/pollinator-conservation/pollinator-conservation-seed-mixes/pacific-northwest-native-seed-mix. Please review the "How to Plant a Meadow" article. They also offer meadow technical guidance (a fee-based service). Here is their Pacific NW Native Pollinator Meadow Mix (for West of the Cascades) - https://northwestmeadowscapes.com/collections/specialty-native-seed-mixes-for-pollinators-and-more/products/native-pollinator-seed-mix-1
These native pollinator plants will mostly produce blooms in spring and summer so you may be removing some blooms if you mow in late July. For the perennials, this will also probably hinder their ability to establish good root systems and their ability to help reduce erosion.
Here are some other sources for Oregon native pollinator seeds -
- https://oregonwholesaleseed.com/product/native-pollinator-mix/
- https://shop.stoverseed.com/products/northwest-native-pollinator-wildflower-mixture
Here is a link to the Xerces Society (pollinators) Northwest Meadows site - https://www.xerces.org/pollinator-conservation/pollinator-conservation-seed-mixes/pacific-northwest-native-seed-mix. Please review the "How to Plant a Meadow" article. They also offer meadow technical guidance (a fee-based service). Here is their Pacific NW Native Pollinator Meadow Mix (for West of the Cascades) - https://northwestmeadowscapes.com/collections/specialty-native-seed-mixes-for-pollinators-and-more/products/native-pollinator-seed-mix-1
These native pollinator plants will mostly produce blooms in spring and summer so you may be removing some blooms if you mow in late July. For the perennials, this will also probably hinder their ability to establish good root systems and their ability to help reduce erosion.
Here are some other sources for Oregon native pollinator seeds -
- https://oregonwholesaleseed.com/product/native-pollinator-mix/
- https://shop.stoverseed.com/products/northwest-native-pollinator-wildflower-mixture
