Seeds for Bees Enrollment Extended!

The enrollment period for the Seeds for Bees® program has been extended!  As soil temperatures drop germination is reduced but California’s central valley is still experiencing conditions that are appropriate for planting cover crops.

Click here to apply to enroll online today!

Planting Methods:
Use a grain drill, no till drill, broadcaster, or even a hand-held broadcaster on small areas to evenly distribute the seed.

Ground Prep:
The best method for planting is direct seeding with drill equipment. If broadcast seeding is the only option then a good, fine seed bed is desirable since most of the seeds are very small like alfalfa. Ideally the soil should be disked, cultipacked with a ring roller, planted and rolled a second time.

Plant:
Plant while soil is still warm (above 55⁰). Plant no more than 1/8” to 1/4” deep. Plant in-between tree rows, fence lines, fallow areas, where trees are being taken out of production, and in orchard margins or borders.

​Bloom:
Nov – Feb

Management:
Ideally it should be mowed or disked after the stand stops blooming. If reseeding is desired leaving plants intact until June may be necessary. This date will vary depending on planting date and local climate.