What should I expect Year 1?

Do not expect your native planting to look great during the first year. Native grass and wildflowers grow slowly during the first 1 - 2 years, and focus their energy on establishing their root systems prior to any surface growth. Common weeds grow much faster since they are annuals and focus their energy on producing and dropping seed in order to survive. Have patience and give your natives time to establish themselves.

Scout your native planting for weed growth and pressure. Expect to mow 3 - 4 times from June - September, but the actual number of mowings will depend on rainfall, weed density, height, and weed species present. Mowing whenever the weeds reach "knee-high" (around 18 inches) will prevent the fast-growing weeds from dropping seed and from shading out the native seedlings. Mow vegetation to a height of 8 - 12 inches, and do not mow after September 15th to allow the natives to build up some energy reserves for the winter and to start strong next spring. Do not spray any herbicides on new native plantings, as the chemicals will kill wildflowers and can also kill or damage native grass seedlings.