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Vitalize Seed Company

Vitalize Native Cover Mix

Vitalize Native Cover Mix

$71.88
$71.88
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Vitalize Native Cover Mix is designed to create long-term screening, bedding cover, and resilient native habitat using carefully selected native grasses and broadleaf species. Whether you're establishing security cover around food plots, improving bedding habitat, stabilizing erosion-prone areas, or restoring native landscapes, this mix provides lasting structure while improving soil health and wildlife habitat.

Unlike traditional cool-season grasses, native species spend their first season developing extensive root systems beneath the surface. That patience pays off with exceptional drought tolerance, healthier soils, and long-lasting habitat that requires minimal maintenance. Whether dormant seeded during winter or planted in the spring, Native Cover Mix is built to provide years of dependable performance for landowners committed to improving their property.
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Why Plant Native Cover?

🌾 Creates thick screening and bedding cover

🦌 Improves wildlife security and habitat diversity

🌱 Deep root systems improve soil structure and water infiltration

💧 More drought tolerant than cool-season grasses

♻️ Long-lasting, low-maintenance habitat solution

🌍 Helps restore native ecosystem balance

What’s in the Bag

    • Big Bluestem
    • Indiangrass
    • Switchgrass
    • Little Bluestem
    • Rough Dropseed
    • Junegrass
    • Virginia Wildrye
    • Black-eyed Susan
    • Wild Bergamot
    • Maximilian's Sunflower
    • Oxeye, False Sunflower
    • Purple Prairie Clover
    • Illinois Bundle Flower
    • Illinois Ticktrefoil
    • Gray-headed Coneflower
    • Partridge Pea
    • Round-headed Bush Clover
    • New England Aster
    • Blue Sky Aster
    • White Prairie Clover

Establishment Expectations

Year 1:

Limited top growth is normal. Most energy is focused underground building root systems.

Year 2:

Native species begin thickening, filling in gaps, and competing with weeds.

Year 3:

Full stand maturity with dense cover, deep roots, and long-term habitat performance.

Planting & Seeding Guidelines

Planting Window

Native mixes can be planted after a killing frost in the fall through late spring.

Dormant fall and winter seedings work especially well because freeze-thaw cycles improve seed-to-soil contact naturally.

Seedbed Preparation

Do not aggressively till the soil before planting. Native seed performs best when planted shallow into a firm seedbed.

Existing Vegetation Control

If cool-season grasses such as brome, fescue, orchardgrass, or Kentucky bluegrass are present, use two herbicide applications before planting.

Seeding Depth

Plant very shallow. Native seed should be placed directly on top of the soil or barely incorporated.

Weed Management

Weed pressure is normal during establishment. Mow vegetation to ankle height when growth reaches knee height during the first summer.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why do native plantings look slow the first year?

Most native species prioritize root development before top growth. The first year is often focused underground.

Can I till before planting?

Minimal soil disturbance is preferred. Native seed establishes best on a firm seedbed.

Why mow during establishment?

Mowing prevents fast-growing annual weeds from shading young native seedlings.

When is the best time to plant?

Dormant seeding after frost through spring works very well depending on conditions.

How long do native stands last?

With proper establishment and maintenance, native plantings can thrive for many years.