Plant a Bee Kind Pollinator Meadow

Pollinators, such as this bumblebee, are a driving force behind our desire to convert more State College area landscapes to beneficial native species. "Barberry and Bradford" invasivescapes like Saybrook and Chestnut Ridge need some pollinator love.

Welcome, neighbor, we’re glad you could join us.

We’re Bee Kind Landscapes by Ridgeline Outdoor Services LLC.

Herbaceous meadows, composed of broadleaf forbs and grasses, are a vital part of a healthy local ecosystem. They support a diverse array of invertebrate species and serve as a foundation for the entire forest-meadow food chain. Even in residential settings, meadow plantings can make a noticeable impact, benefitting local wildlife.

The seed mix you received is a Pennsylvania Ridge and Valley Region Pollinator Meadow Mix. It is a carefully blended mix composed of over 50 native species intended to preserve important pollinator species and maintain the integrity of local wild plant genetics.

The amount provided is enough to properly plant a small area of approximately three square feet. If you're interested in larger plantings, we offer a variety of mixes to suit different needs.

Establishing meadows from seed requires patience and care. These are not "weed seeds"—they are the beginnings of a thriving, ecologically valuable habitat.

We believe in you! Even under less-than-ideal conditions, you’re likely to see success. We'd love to follow your progress—share your journey with us by tagging @beekindlandscapes on social media.

Three easy steps to plant your happy little meadow:

  • Child riding a toy tractor in a garden with a potted plant on the back, another child walking on a sidewalk, and cars parked in a driveway.

    Step 1: Plan and Prepare

    Choose a sunny spot, remove weeds, and clear the area for seeding. The seed will cover approximately 2-3 square feet.

  • Step 2: Plant and Press

    Scatter seeds evenly and lightly massage and press them into the soil for good contact. Do not bury seeds.

  • Child holding a stem with a monarch caterpillar on a leaf.

    Step 3: Wait and Enjoy

    Native seeds won’t need a lot of help with germination (although some need a cold activation). Be patient, and keep the area clear of typical lawn weeds.

Native pollinator meadows are stunning, beautiful landscapes. They require patience and maintenance, like all good things in life.
Spangled Fritillary on a milkweed plant in a forest buffer meadow planted by Bee Kind Landscapes

What will our meadow look like?

Good question. We’ve curated one of our favorite seed mixes that we have used succesfully on a few conservation projects, and each one turns out a little different.

You can expect a mix of grasses and perennial herbs. There might be some flowers the first season, but more likely not until next year.

This is a complementary piece to your overall native landscape, not generally intended to be front and center. If your property suits it, we very highly recommend this mix as a forest buffer meadow.

Questions? Check out our services at the Bee Kind Hive or send us a text.

We have all your State College Area landscaping needs covered. We focus on sustainable and native landscaping, because it comes naturally to us.

Monarch caterpillar larvae on a milkweed plant in Oakwood
Meadows benefit PA endangered species including this short eared owl.

Why plant meadows?

In addition to their beauty, meadows provide important wildlife habitat for locally rare and endangered species and support a diverse and resilient ecosystem.

Keep in touch? Sign up for the Bee Kind Quarterly Newsletter. We might even have a prize for the happiest little meadow.