Q. I am trying to start a prairie. I was wondering if I used Roundup on the weeds, will it kill the seeds that are there from last year? I had killed the weeds but then had it tilled and more weeds came after I had seeded it.
-Canton, Missouri
A. Roundup will kill living plants but does not prevent germination of seeds. When you till the soil you awaken dormant weed seeds and cause them to germinate. Proper soil preparation is the single most important factor in the success of any wildflower planting. The seed bed must be smooth and weed free. Existing weeds will compete with prairie seedlings for nutrients, water and sunlight. If not controlled they can considerably delay the growth and maturation of your meadow. A smooth, clump-free seed bed will guarantee firm contact between the soil and seed, enhancing seed germination.
Are you planning to seed your prairie this Spring or wait until fall to do a dormant seeding?
I hope this helps!
Miriam Goldberger, President, Wildflower Farm
www.wildflowerfarm.com
