Native Pollinator Habitat for Dry, Sandy & Pine Barrens Sites
The species selection emphasizes deep-rooted native grasses and drought-tolerant forbs that establish quickly, resist weed pressure, and provide season-long nectar, pollen, and seed production. Once established, this mix maintains an open, savanna-like structure ideal for bees, butterflies, and grassland birds.
Tick-trefoil, Showy (Canada) (0.3), Deer Tongue Grass (0.35), Wildrye, Virginia (0.6), Lespedeza, Roundhead (Bushclover) (0.3), Bergamot, Wild (Prairie Beebalm) (0.35), Primrose, Common Evening (0.3), Smooth Panicgrass (0.25), Red Top Panicgrass (0.2), Susan, Black-eyed (0.35), Bluestem, Little (VNS) (0.8), Goldenrod, Gray (Field) (Old Field) (0.3), Aster, Frost (hairy white oldfield) (hairy) (0.25), Vervain, Blue (0.15), Alexander, Golden (0.15). Created January 2026.
Key Benefits
- Designed specifically for sandplain barrens & coastal plain soils
- Strong pollinator support from spring through fall
- Open structure ideal for early successional wildlife
- Native species adapted to low fertility & drought
- Minimal long-term maintenance once established
Ideal Uses
- Pine Barrens & coastal plain restoration
- Dry sandy wildlife habitat projects
- Pollinator plantings on marginal soils
- Utility corridors, preserves, and conservation lands
NRCS Practice Fit
- NRCS 327 – Conservation Cover (Pollinator emphasis)
- NRCS 645 – Upland Wildlife Habitat Management
- Compatible with state & NGO pollinator initiatives
Site & Installation Notes
Soils: Dry, sandy, acidic, well-drained
Planting: Dormant fall or early spring preferred
Seeding Method: Drill or broadcast with firm seed-to-soil contact
Management: One annual mowing or rotational disturbance recommended after establishment
