How to Plant Native and Eco-Friendly Seed Mixes This Fall with Earthwise Seed Co
Fall is one of the best times of year to plant seeds. Cooler temperatures, seasonal rains, and softer soil create the perfect environment for germination. Whether you’re starting an eco-friendly lawn, overseeding your yard, or planning a colorful pollinator garden, fall planting sets you up for success next spring.
Why Fall is the Best Time to Plant
Cooler soil and air – Seeds don’t dry out as quickly, reducing the need for constant watering.
Stronger root development – Seeds planted in fall spend their energy establishing roots, which makes them more resilient against summer heat and drought.
Cold stratification made easy – Many wildflowers need a period of winter cold to sprout properly. By planting in the fall, you let nature do the work.
Low effort, high reward – Sow once, then let the seasons carry your seed through.
Best Earthwise Seed Co Mixes for Fall Planting
TrueGrass™ Native Lawn Mix
- Blend: Texoka Buffalograss + Blue Grama Grass
- Germination Rate: Slow and steady (usually 2–3 weeks, sometimes longer depending on soil temps). These grasses establish deep roots and spread naturally over time.
- Why plant in fall: TrueGrass loves the cooler season for root development. It will germinate in fall if soil temps are still above ~60°F, or it will rest through winter and sprout first thing in spring.
- Best for: Those who want a turf-like look that’s drought-tolerant, native, and low-maintenance.
Low Grow Lawn Alternative
- Blend: Fine fescues + clover species
- Germination Rate: Fescues typically germinate in 7–14 days, clovers in 7–10 days, so you’ll see quick results.
- Why plant in fall: Cool-season fescues thrive in autumn soil temps, while clover fills in quickly for a thick, living carpet.
- Best for: Homeowners who want a low-maintenance, dense ground cover that stays green and needs less mowing.
PetLawn™ Alternative Lawn Mix
- Blend: Tall fescue + White Dutch Clover
- Germination Rate: Tall fescue germinates in 7–14 days, clover in 7–10 days. Fast and reliable.
- Why plant in fall: Both fescue and clover establish best in cooler seasons, giving you a pet-friendly lawn by spring.
- Best for: Families and pet owners who want a soft, durable lawn with year-round color.
Pollinator Paradise™ Native Wildflower Seeds
- Blend: Dozens of native wildflowers, including species that need winter chill to germinate.
- Germination Rate: Varies by species. Some annuals may germinate in the fall, but most perennials will sprout in the spring after stratification.
- Why plant in fall: Mimics the natural cycle — seeds overwinter in the soil and wake up with rain and warmth in spring.
- Best for: Anyone creating a pollinator garden with blooms that support bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds.
Shop Earthwise Seed Company's Pollinator Paradise Native Mix
Clover Collection
Clover is one of the easiest things to establish in the fall. It germinates quickly (7–10 days in most soils) and stays green longer into winter. Clover also naturally enriches your soil with nitrogen, which benefits nearby grasses and wildflowers.
Some great choices for fall planting:
- White Dutch Clover – Low-growing, stays green, very resilient.
- Microclover – Blends well into existing turf for a uniform look.
- Crimson Clover – A showy annual with bright red blooms, also great for soil enrichment.
Shop Earthwise Seed Company's Clover Collection
Step-by-Step: How to Plant in Fall
- Prepare your site – Remove weeds or old grass, lightly rake, and loosen the top inch of soil.
- Spread seed evenly – Use a hand spreader or scatter by hand for uniform coverage.
- Add Seed-Tac™ (optional but recommended) – Keeps seed anchored, especially on slopes or bare soil.
- Water gently – A good soak at planting, then let seasonal rainfall do the rest.
- Wait and watch – Some seeds will sprout in fall, while others rest until spring. Both are normal.
Fall Planting FAQs
How late can I plant?
Ideally, 4–6 weeks before your first hard frost. Seeds that don’t germinate will overwinter and sprout in spring. You can find your average first frost date in The Old Farmer's Almanac by zipcode.
Can I overseed my lawn in fall?
Yes! You can overseed with any of our mixes if you’re patient, but most commonly we recommend using PetLawn™ or clover for filling in brown or bare patches. These blends establish quickly, improve color, and add resilience to your existing lawn.
Do wildflowers really need frost?
Many perennial species do. That’s why planting the Pollinator Paradise™ Mix in fall gives you the best success.
Ready to Get Started?
Fall planting is the easiest way to grow a resilient, eco-friendly landscape that thrives year after year. With native grass mixes, clover alternatives, and pollinator blends, Earthwise Seed Co makes it simple.