Atwood LawnCare

From time to time, every lawn will sustain a little damage that will need to be re-seeded. Whether it is damage caused by the kids playing on the lawn, animal damage, drought damage or repairing pest damage, every lawn will need some minor repairs sooner or later. The following are some recommendations for re-seeding home lawns:

1. Pick the right seed. Most home lawns are comprised primarily of Kentucky Bluegrass. Some newer lawns may also contain amounts of Fine Fescue or Perennial Ryegrass. Pick a seed that will match the type of grass that is predominant in your lawn right now. Also, where is this seed going to grow? In the sun or shady areas of your yard? Pick a seed that is adapted for your conditions. Finally, don’t go cheap on grass seed. Cheaper seed may contain weeds and wild grasses that will ruin the appearance of your lawn.
2. Prepare the seed bed. Seed will not germinate unless it is in good contact with the soil. Therefore, be sure all debris and any dead grass has been removed from the area to be seeded. If a hole has been created, adding a little topsoil to bring up the level may be necessary.
3. Spread the seed. Evenly distribute the seed in the prepared area. Don’t skimp on seed unless you are willing to tolerate a thin stand. But don’t dump the seed too heavily either. A thin stand may also result. Lightly rake the seed into the top ½” of the soil.
4. Grow your seed. Keep the seed bed moist until the seed germinates. For Kentucky Bluegrass, this will take 14 – 21 days. If the seed bed is allowed to dry out for too long of a period, the seed will not germinate. Watering is the most important part of the process. A light fertilizing with a starter fertilizer (12-12-12, 5-5-20, or similar) will be helpful at this time. When the seed germinates, apply another light application of fertilizer to the seeded area.

Some Other Useful Tips:
• When to Seed: While seeding can be done most any time, wait until mid May before starting, to allow the ground to warm up. The best time of all is late August through the end of September. Weed seed competition is low, cooler temperatures and warm soils will help jump-start your seed.
• Weed Control on New Seed: Pre-emergent crabgrass control that is applied in the early spring will prevent grass from germinating for up to six months. If pre-emergent materials were applied, a heavy raking or tilling will be required for any chance of success. Broadleaf weed controls (for dandelions, etc.) will only harm the grass if it has come up and has not been mowed at least twice.
• Pre-Mixed Seed and Mulch: The bagged seed/fertilizer/mulch products that are available are a wonderful solution to seeding smaller areas. The mulch will help retain water. Regular watering remains the most important part of seeding, but these products really help improve your chances of success.