Planting grass seed in the fall is a good idea for dryland pasture, wildflower, and forest mixes. 

Ideally, the seed should be sown right before the permanent snow pack is on the ground, or when it’s gotten cold enough to prevent germination (consistent soil temperatures below 50 degrees Fahrenheit). It’s important that the seed not germinate and then get frozen. Rough up the soil with a rake or similar tool. Scatter seed and cover with approximately 1/4 inch of soil. Then cover that with a layer of light mulch, such as straw or compost.

The Middle Park Conservation District has several seed mixes available for purchase. The Forest Mix is good for areas where beetle kill trees have been removed. The Dryland Pasture Mix is good for soil erosion prevention and is also good forage for livestock as a dryland pasture mix.  Our Short Mix is ideal for disturbed areas around buildings.  Our Wildflower Mix has both perennials and annuals in it and is good for adding a pop of color to your yard.  We also have a turf-type lawn mix call DuraTurf and an Irrigated Meadow Mix.

Encouraging grasses and wildflowers to grow in disturbed areas will help prevent soil erosion and noxious weed invasion.