Whether you need to replenish your lawn or create an entirely new landscape, it’s essential to understand the grass seeding process. Getting it right will result in lush grass growth that will impress your neighbors and boost your home’s value. Here’s what you need to know to get started.

How to Seed Grass

1. Planning

First, you’ll need to choose the type of grass that best fits your soil type and your needs. If your lawn receives moderate shade to full sun, for instance, you may want a mix of Kentucky bluegrass and fine fescue or ryegrass.

Most grasses grown in Connecticut are cool-season types, which grow well in the mild weather and humidity of the Northeast. A few warm-season grasses may also be used. Though these kinds thrive in the summer, they typically turn brown once the temperature drops below 65 degrees in the autumn and winter. If you choose a warm-season grass, you may want to overseed with a cool-season grass in fall to keep your lawn green year-round. Your grass seeding professional will advise what’s best. 

2. Soil Prep

Your old lawn will need to be removed with a sod cutter. Rocks will also be extracted to ensure the area is smooth, level, and graded. Grass grows best in loose soil, so if your landscaping is hard and compacted, tilling may be needed to prepare it for the seed. An expert will test your soil’s acidity and add lime or peat moss with a broadcast spreader to balance its pH, if necessary. Sand and compost may be distributed to create ideal growing conditions. 

3. Seeding

Your lawn care professional will use a spreader with the appropriate settings to lay out the seed. Typically, they’ll cover the edges first and then fill in the center to ensure your lawn gets full coverage. 

4. Cover

A thin layer of soil protects the seeds and encourages them to grow. Packaged lawn soil is preferred, as natural soil may have weed seeds. For extra protection and to keep the earth damp, a thin layer of straw or another degradable mulch may be added.

5. Water

Keeping the soil moist is key to getting strong, lush growth right off the bat. However, you don’t want to drown the seeds, as they also need oxygen to grow and can rot when it’s too wet. It’s generally recommended that you water two to three times weekly for roughly 20 to 30 minutes, though this may vary depending on weather conditions, your grass type, and the pressure levels of your sprinkler or hose. 

 

For professional grass seeding and lawn care, contact The Lawn Surgeon in Cromwell, CT. Serving the Middlesex and Greater Hartford areas for over 30 years, this family-owned business provides top-notch lawn care for residential and commercial clients. With their expertise and precision, they’ll ensure your lawn looks its absolute best in any season. To schedule a visit, call (860) 635-1127 or get in touch online.