We consider the optimal time for a dormant seeding in our Upper Midwest region to extend through February. Any day from late October through February on which you can walk around your planting site with relative ease and comfort is potentially a great day to broadcast seeds.

An ideal scenario might feature you sowing seed right before the next gentle snowfall tucks it in for the winter. That sounds great, but the true ideal timing is whenever you can get the job done effectively.

The benefits of fall or winter dormant seedings are well documented. The weathering actions of those seasons work broadcast seeds into optimal contact with the soil. Rain, snow and ice provide the months of moist, cold stratification that most native flowering species (forbs) require to break germination inhibitors.

Snow cover melts both from below and from the surface, so seeds that may start out suspended inches above ground level will eventually work their way down to the soil. Sunshine will “burn” dark seeds into snow even on days when the air temperature remains quite cold.

As you sow, the contrast of your dark seeds and filler material on ground covered by snow or ice will display your “spray” patterns, giving you instant feedback on how well you are covering your planting area. “But what about birds eating all my seed?” Our customers love to ask that question. Although some studies have noted significant impact of predation on broadcast seedings, the odds of small mammals or birds finding and consuming enough of your seeds to spoil your planting are remote. The large migrating flocks should have passed by now and by the time you finish tromping about your planting site, your seeds will no longer lie temptingly on a pristine white blanket.

Common sense, prudent planning and a judicious sense of timing still are essential for a successful dormant planting. For example, if the wind is gusting to 30 m.p.h. or higher and your snow cover has a coating of glazed ice, you could stand and toss fistfuls from a sack of dollar bills and have results nearly equal to sowing your seed mix under those conditions.

So, if your site has been prepared, don’t put off your planting plans until next year. Get out there and get your dormant seeding down so that Nature can start working her magic. What a great excuse to play outside!