Oh No! You haven't posted in ages and now it turns out the tornadoes hit? yikes! I don't ave any suggestions, sorry. But wanted to say sorry about the tornado and happy to 'see' you back on here!

Too bad you can't start a pumpkin patch to cover the ground,deter weed growth and give you time til fall.
Are the stumps out ,ais?
What kinds of trees grew there? The leftover leaf litter may be from trees that deter undergrowth.

How large an area are you describing,ais?
Sloped,flat? Are heavy summer rains going to wash out the area or is it well drained.
Things to consider before investing in plantings or seed.
Sorry to hear you were tornado effected. That must have been so scary for you and yours.

it was terrifying. we had mostly pines and a couple of tulip poplars and sweetgums. the stumps are out and it's pretty clear. I think I'll lay hay down until fall before I plant seeds. I found one company that sells some kind of native grass mix but just not sure how it does. still I think I'll try it. at least now I can grow veggies :) full sun LOL

Glad you guys are ok! Did it damage your house at all?

no we were fine and my garden was so overgrown I'm looking at this as an opportunity to take control back. I saved the major things luckily. But I think I'll be needing to come to the fall swap ;)

Good! It's been far too long since you've come- we look forward to seeing you!! So glad you guys and your house were fine.