Remove or Smother Existing Lawn
1–2 weeksSolarize, sheet mulch, or mechanically remove turf; test soil pH and compaction before native seed prep.
Intermediate1 season
Native Garden Conversion Guide
Complete guide for native garden conversion — step-by-step workflow, tools, checklist, and expert tips to get started.
ecological gardenersxeriscape fans
Workflow
Calculate Native Seed and Mulch Quantities
1 dayOrder regional native seed mix by square footage, calculate straw or leaf mulch depth for erosion control.
Seed, Irrigate Establishment, and First-Year Weed Control
1 seasonBroadcast seed on prepared seedbed, roll or press for soil contact, irrigate lightly until germination, hand-pull weeds.
Monitor Establishment and Adjust Species Mix
OngoingDocument species that thrive vs fail, add plugs for gaps, and reduce supplemental water in year two.
Tools Used
- Lawn Seed Coverage CalculatorPrimary
Calculates native seed pounds per acre or thousand sq ft for even coverage.
- Mulch Volume CalculatorPrimary
Sizes erosion-control mulch for slopes during establishment.
- Topsoil Depth CalculatorSupporting
Determines if topsoil amendment is needed before seeding.
- Hedge Spacing CalculatorReference
Spaces native shrub plugs added after first-year gaps appear.
Checklist
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Compliance
Drainage
Materials
Planning
Execution
Documentation
Reference Materials
Native Seed RatesTable
Native Seed Rates
| Mix Type | Rate (lb/1000 sq ft) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Shortgrass prairie | 0.5–1.0 | Full sun dry |
| Mesic meadow | 1.0–2.0 | Moderate moisture |
| Shade understory | 0.25–0.5 | Woodland edge |
Seed CoverageFormula
Seed (lb) = area (1000 sq ft) × rate × 1.15 buffer for uneven broadcast.
No InvasivesStandard
Verify seed mix contains no listed invasive species for your state.
Dig Once
Combine trenching for irrigation, drainage, and low-voltage lighting in one pass when possible.
Right Plant Right Place
Match plant mature size to spacing calculators — overcrowding creates maintenance debt for years.
PPE for Hardscape
Wear eye and ear protection when cutting pavers, blocks, or running plate compactors.
Safety Notes
- Call 811 before any digging to locate underground utilities.
- Consider drainage and grading — water flowing toward the foundation causes damage.