Is it necessary to perform a prairie prescribed burn? - Ask Extension
Our development has an established prairie that has been planted and maintained by a professional service for the past 20 years. We have always had a...
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Is it necessary to perform a prairie prescribed burn? #922864
Asked December 14, 2025, 8:35 PM EST
Our development has an established prairie that has been planted and maintained by a professional service for the past 20 years. We have always had a 'burn' every three years. Rising costs and scheduling conflicts have delayed our prescribed burn. It will be done this spring 2026 after a 5 year gap. It doesn't appear to have suffered, as observed by this untrained eye! Once a prairie is established, could it be sufficiently maintained with just mowing and spot weed treatment? The prescribed burn of about 4 acres is becoming a big cost for our HOA. Thanks for your advice!
Washington County Minnesota
Expert Response
A well-planned burn is usually more cost-effective in the long run than the ongoing, intensive effort required for sufficient mowing and spot treatments to achieve the same results. Just mowing creates a thatch buildup while fire releases nutrients stored in the biomass to quickly serve as a fertilizer. Fire is also more effective at killing non-native grasses. A burnt prairie absorbs sun more quickly, leading to abundant healthy growth.
If a burn is not possible, mowing to a height of 2 inches in early spring and removing the clippings can serve as a bit of a substitute, but this is a temporary solution.
Good luck with your prairie!
If a burn is not possible, mowing to a height of 2 inches in early spring and removing the clippings can serve as a bit of a substitute, but this is a temporary solution.
Good luck with your prairie!
