Need to fill in some thin spots? April is the time to reseed. This weekend promises the perfect weather and a good time to get that project off the honey-do list. Here are a few tips from our experts before you start:
- Rake bare areas before seeding to clear the area.
- Add topsoil or a topsoil/compost mix to top-dress the bare areas for better seed germination.
- Apply a starter fertilizer at the rate specified on the bag.
- Apply the seed at the rate specified on the bag, either by hand or a spreader.
- Gently rake the seed into the soil, so that it is covered by the soil. This improves germination.
- Apply straw to help hold the moisture in the soil and protect the seeds from direct sunlight and erosion.
- Keep the grass seed moist until it germinates, which may require daily watering or more often if temps rise (be sure to avoid standing water or excess runoff).
- Germination time depends on the type of seed you use: Kentucky bluegrass 21 to 28 days; perennial ryegrass 10 to 14 days; and fescue just 7 to 10 days.
- When the new grass is 4 inches high, you can mow it (set your mower at 3-3.5 inches).
- Lastly, apply another round of starter fertilizer after the second mowing.
