Before you lay grass seed this spring, let us help you make the most of your time, money, and lawn.
When to Lay Grass Seed
While early fall will produce the best results, late spring to early summer is also a great time to establish your lawn. We recommend no later than June 15th, and no sooner than August 15th.
How to Plant for Success
Accurately measuring the area (in square feet) is the first step so you know the amount of seed you’ll be utilizing. Using a test kit for soil pH is highly recommended. A pH between 6 and 7 is great. Add topsoil to fill holes and even out the area if needed. Adding organic matter, like compost, to the soil will increase the nutrient values and conserve moisture. If no organic matter or top soil is added, tilling the area will increase water and root penetration. Soil should be tilled when the soil is dry enough that it breaks apart in your hand. Check the label on your spreader for the listed settings to ensure proper coverage. You can protect the seeds by covering it with a light sprinkle of topsoil, a thin layer of straw, or a harvest guard blanket to protect the seed from animals, insects, wind, and to regulate temperature. No matter if you want to start your seed in the spring or fall, it is important the soil is kept moist without creating puddles. Wait to mow the new grass till it is 3 inches of height.
Choosing Your Grass Seed
A beautiful, luscious, green lawn not only looks great, but it also increases the value of your home. Using the correct seed is the key to the lawn of your dreams.
When you are shopping for grass seed, you may notice the different blends that are offered. This is because your grass seed should be catered to your lawn type. To ensure your grass grows properly, you want to make sure you are using the right seed. Features to look for are sun exposure, how much traffic will be on your lawn, the maintenance you can provide, and the climate of your area. Depending on the blend of seed, the tolerance for these features will differ. If your lawn gets less than 5 hours of sun, you need a blend that is specific for shady lawns. Above 6 hours of sun is considered full sun. Most lawns fall between full sun to partial shade (4-8 hours of sun).
Controlling the Weeds If you plant in the spring, crabgrass could potentially germinate as your seeds are growing. If you use a standard crabgrass preventer, you will likely have to wait 12 weeks before seeding can occur. If you know you will be seeding and preventing crabgrass, try using Jonathan Green’s Crabgrass Preventer plus New Seeding Lawn Fertilizer which can safely be used the same day. Once your lawn reaches 3 inches of height, you can begin mowing your lawn. After the third mowing, weed control can begin by using traditional broadleaf