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Vitalize Seed Company

Vitalize Native Cover Mix (Pre-Order Only)

Vitalize Native Cover Mix (Pre-Order Only)

$71.88
$71.88
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Vitalize Native Browse is designed to establish diverse native forage that supports wildlife nutrition, habitat quality, and long-term land health. Built around native species adapted to thrive in challenging environments, this mix provides highly attractive browse while improving biodiversity and creating healthier habitat structure across your property.

Unlike conventional forage systems that rely heavily on annual inputs, native browse systems develop extensive root systems that improve water infiltration, nutrient cycling, and long-term resilience. Native establishment takes patience, but once established, these systems provide lasting forage diversity and habitat value that benefits deer, pollinators, birds, and the overall ecosystem.

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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.