Tecomate Seed Co.

Tecomate Seed Company got its start in the warm climes of South Texas, but in a nod to its good friends in the Northeast and Midwest, expanded its extensive seed line this year to include a blend that can be frost-seeded.

This ancient technique uses the soil's thawing action to bury the seed to the correct depth and is one of the few ways to effectively plant seeds with no soil preparation. Conventional seeding is also an option.

Frost Zone includes a high-sugar perennial grass, white clover and chicory. Just north of the Mason-Dixon line, planting dates start in late January. The blend should reseed and last for several years if properly maintained.

Also new from Tecomate this year is Alpha Xtreme , a mix that utilizes a patented alfalfa variety called Sunstra. Compared to most hay alfalfas, Sunstra has finer stems, produces more leaves and is much more resistant to browsing pressure. Like most other alfalfas, the new Xtreme mix needs a pH of around 6.5 and fertile, well-drained soils to excel. A perennial red clover and chicory are included.

The seeds are coated with Tecomate's new cornstarch-based Yellow Jacket coating that holds up to 600 times its weight in water and allows plants to establish themselves more quickly.

Go online to www.tecomate.com.

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