If you’re a homeowner who desires to achieve the most beautiful lawn on the block, starting from seed may be the best option if your lawn is unappealing and needs a fresh start. Reseeding the lawn enables the homeowner to choose the grass variety that best fits the surrounding environment. With just a few easy steps, you can breathe new life into your yard and increase your home’s value.
1. Start the Reseeding Process at the Right Time of Year
Choose the appropriate time of the year to begin planting your lawn seeds. Planting grass seed should be done after the last frost threat has passed to guarantee good germination rates. Since grass seeds don’t germinate well in cold weather and may be damaged by freezing temperatures, it’s essential to wait before planting. Wait for seven to ten days past the last frost date to ensure that the fruits of your labor will not be killed by cold weather.
2. Remove Existing Vegetation, Grass, and Debris
The next step to reseeding a lawn is clearing the area of all obstacles. You can accomplish this by using a rake to remove all debris such as pine straw, leaves, and sticks from the site. Removing the vegetation will eliminate any plants that will compete with freshly planted grass seed. Two weeks before planting, spray any living grass or vegetation with glyphosate. Glyphosate will eliminate any existing plants and will break down before seeds being planted.
3. Add any Fertilizers or Soil Enhancers
If your soil lacks nutrients, you can take steps to improve growing conditions. Applying sulfur or lime will help to adjust the soil’s pH. You can determine if any corrective action is needed by taking a simple soil test. Additionally, spreading a nitrogen-based fertilizer before seeding the grass will pack the soil with nutrients that are crucial for germination.
4. Level the Ground
Level the ground using a gardening rake or shovel to ensure a smooth and level surface, which will help to spread grass seed evenly. Remove any remaining debris before planting as well.
5. Apply Grass Seed
Apply the recommended amount of grass seed to the prepared soil, as outlined in the manufacturer’s instructions. Most application rates are outlines in a per 1,000 square foot rate. Applying coated grass seed is easier and more efficient than an uncoated variety. You can use a hand spreader for application, which is adequate for most lawns.
6. Cover the Seed with Soil or Sand
Cover the newly applied seed with soil or sand to assist in the germination process. A light layer of soil will help to hydrate the seeds, keeping them protected from the elements, predators such as birds and squirrels, and prevent them from being blown or washed away.
7. Water
Seed germination is facilitated by keeping the seeds hydrated. Most grass varieties will need to receive between one and two inches of rain per week. If dry or drought conditions persist after planting, the seeds will require increased watering. Most seeds will need intensive watering for a minimum of three weeks post-planting. Ensure that grass seeds do not sit in excessive amounts of water, which can lead to rot and disease.
8. General Maintenance and Enjoying the Lawn
Maintain your lawn by trimming or cutting it after five to seven weeks have passed, as mowing a newly planted lawn too early can damage the turf and decrease the growth rate. Once the grass’s roots have taken hold, watering schedules can be reduced. Continue to fertilize and apply nutrients to the lawn as needed. After eight weeks of growth, you can add pre-emergent and post-emergent products to the lawn. Finally, after working to plant a beautiful lawn, the most important advice is to enjoy the healthy and happy grass you have created!