CP25 Iowa Ecotype Mesic Prairie 30/10
All-Iowa ecotype CP25 mesic prairie blend with 30+ species locally sourced.
This CP25 mix uses exclusively Iowa-ecotype seed collected from remnant prairies in the state — the strongest genetic match for Midwest restorations. Thirty-plus species at a 30 grass / 10 forb PLS ratio per square foot deliver a mesic prairie community that meets Iowa NRCS CP25 requirements and holds up over the full 10–15 year CRP contract.
At a glance
- Seeding rate
- 7–9 lbs PLS/acre (30/10 seed count)
- Coverage / sizes
- Sold by the acre; pre-mixed with rice hulls to 10 lbs/ac total.
- When to plant
- Dormant Nov–Mar preferred for cold-stratified Iowa ecotype forbs.
- Site fit
- Mesic loam and silt-loam uplands in Iowa and adjacent Corn Belt states.
Highlights
- 100% Iowa-ecotype seed sourced from remnant prairies
- 33 species — 30 grass seeds + 10 forb seeds per sq ft
- Meets or exceeds Iowa USDA CP25 mesic requirements
- Best local genetic fit for long-term stand persistence
Common use cases
- — CP25 rare & declining habitat contracts in Iowa
- — Restorations where local ecotype seed is required by grant
- — High-value private prairie reconstructions
FAQ
Why does Iowa ecotype seed matter?
Locally sourced seed is adapted to Midwest photoperiod, soils, and climate. Stands establish more reliably, flower on the right schedule for local pollinators, and persist longer than out-of-state genetics.
Does this cost more than a standard CP25?
Yes — ecotype seed is limited-supply and typically 20–40% more per acre than commodity CP25 mixes. For grant-funded projects and long-term restorations it's usually worth it.
Recommended in these states
CP25 Iowa Ecotype Mesic Prairie 30/10 appears in our state guides for the regions below. Jump straight to this mix's card on the state guide.
Dormant seeding November through early March is preferred statewide for cold-stratified forbs. Frost seeding into snow works well on the Des Moines Lobe.
Related mixes
Tallgrass-dominant CP25 blend built to the 30/10 grass-to-forb PLS ratio.
High-diversity CP25 mix with 40+ species at a 20/20 grass-to-forb ratio.
70–90 species Leopold-inspired CP42 pollinator mix for maximum bloom diversity.
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