Alter-NATIVE Lawn Mix

Description

The Alter-NATIVE Lawn Mix – is not a traditional lawn—and that’s the point. This mix is made entirely of Midwest native grasses that naturally remain relatively short and are adapted to low fertility, dry conditions, and minimal management. It’s designed for people who want living groundcover without constant mowing, watering, or fertilizer inputs.

Management is simple.

This mix can be mowed occasionally during the growing season, especially when seed heads emerge and plants temporarily grow taller. Alternatively, it can be left completely unmowed for a more natural appearance. Once established, no irrigation or fertilization is needed.

Establishment:

Seed by broadcasting or drilling in winter or spring onto a clean, firm seedbed. Good seed-to-soil contact is critical, but take care not to bury the seed deeper than ⅛–¼ inch. If planting in late spring, temporary irrigation can help improve germination and early establishment. Removing a portion of the topsoil prior to planting can significantly improve success by reducing fertility and competition.

Optional enhancement – Native wildflowers:

For those who want additional color, texture, and ecological function, a light scattering of native wildflower seed can be added to the Alter-NATIVE Lawn Mix. These are shorter-stature wildflowers—generally waist-high or less—that blend well with native grasses and add seasonal beauty while dramatically improving pollinator and wildlife habitat. If wildflowers are included, winter seeding is ideal to take advantage of natural stratification and improve establishment.

Site conditions:

This mix performs best on dry to dry-mesic soils, in full sun to part shade, and on sites with low fertility. High-fertility soils or heavily amended sites are not ideal.

Why choose a native lawn?

• No ongoing watering or fertilizing once established
• Minimal—or no—mowing
• Improved soil health and deeper root systems
• Increased wildlife and pollinator habitat
• A direct connection to the Midwest’s natural heritage

The Alter-NATIVE Lawn Mix isn’t about perfection. It’s about function, resilience, and choosing plants that belong where you live.

Mix contents – Classic: Buffalograss; Sideoats Grama; Poverty Grass; Blue Grama; Wedge Grass, Prairie.

Mix contents – Classic + Color: Buffalograss; Sideoats Grama; Poverty Grass; Blue Grama; Wedge Grass, Prairie; Barbara’s Button; Bergamot, Wild; Beardtongue, White; Coneflower, Pale Purple; Coreopsis, Plains; Coreopsis, Tickseed; Prairie Clover, Purple; Wingstem, Yellow; Yarrow.

Alter-NATIVE Lawn Mix – Quick FAQ

Q: Is this like a regular lawn?
A: No. This is a low-growing, all-native lawn alternative. It won’t look like turfgrass, but it’s easy-care and natural.

Q: How often do I mow?
A: Low or no-mow. Mow occasionally if you want a tidier appearance, especially when seed heads appear, or leave it unmowed.

Q: Do I need to water or fertilize?
A: No. Once established, this mix thrives without irrigation or fertilizer. Light watering helps if planted late in spring.

Q: What should I expect the first year?
A: The first year is all about establishing roots. Growth may be thin at first, and plants may look patchy. Expect the mix to fill in more fully in year two and beyond.

Q: Can I add wildflowers?
A: Yes! The Classic + Bloom option adds a light smattering of native wildflowers for color and pollinator habitat. Winter seeding works best.

Q: Where does it grow best?
A: Full sun to part shade on dry to dry-mesic soils with low fertility. Removing some topsoil can improve success.

This mix pairs well with: 

Dry’n Rocky Mix; Prairie Patchwork Mix; Shadows & Sunbeams Mix; & Companion Grass Mesic Mix

Watch our YouTube video about native lawns: