Homeowners who think that seeding their lawn just requires them to sprinkle grass seed over the ground will be sorely disappointed. There are specific steps to follow on how to plant grass seed in order to end up with a beautiful looking lawn that is green and lush.
Preparation is key when learning how to plant grass seed. Select a quality seed that is suitable for existing ground and climate conditions and also any existing grass. Have a rake handy to help prepare the soil and be sure it is level. If the lawn already has a built-in irrigation system, check to be sure it is in good working order before planting any seeds. Invest in weed-free mulch and a sprinkler head for the watering hose.
Lightly water the soil in order to help soften any hard or crusty patches prior to beginning the seeding process. Avoid starting any grass seeding project immediately after a heavy rainfall or during a heat wave. Aim for moderate weather during the spring or the fall. Once the ground is moist and level, you are ready to begin using a hand held spreader or rotary wheeled spreader, paying attention to the amount of seed that is recommended per square foot of lawn by the grass seed manufacturer. A good rule of thumb is to plant no less than a dozen seeds per square inch.
Divide the amount of seed you are planting into two separate batches and spread the first amount, then go over the same ground walking at a different angle to spread the second half of seed which helps ensure more consistent coverage than just going over the ground once to spread the grass seed. Now it's time to use the rake to gently sow the seed into the soil because you don't want your grass seed simply laying atop the ground where it can be blown away by the wind or easily eaten by the birds.
It is a good idea to always buy more grass seed than you anticipate needing because as you complete the raking process, you may notice bare patches or areas where the seed is thinner than desired and you can fill in with the extra seeds. Rent a lawn roller and go over every inch where the seed has been placed to ensure that it is firmly in the ground. Now cover it with compost, manure or straw to offer protection and to keep the seeds moist during the germination period. Water lightly and daily until the grass is at least two inches high.
How To Plant Grass Seed
Tips on How to Plant Grass Seed for Best Results
