Starting a new lawn requires preparation and patience. These elements are mandatory and the keys to successfully seeding a new lawn. Do not feel discouraged by those who say the process is too difficult or that it can only be done by professionals because the reality is that with a little preparation and the right soil, you can do it yourself.
Quality grass seed is a must as is well-prepared soil, so start by choosing a grass that is suitable for your lifestyle and budget. The seed must be right for your location as well, so factor in all of these aspects as well as the growing conditions when making your selection. Look at things like whether your lawn will get full or partial sun and whether there will be lots of foot traffic because these will help you determine the right seed.
Once the area where you want your future lawn to be has been determined, you need to remove your old lawn and inspect the area. Large rocks and debris must be removed and low spots must be filled in. The ultimate goal is to break your soil down to pea-sized particles because this will allow it to successfully welcome your grass seeds. Next, even out any peaks or valleys in your new lawn to get rid of uneven surfaces and use a rake for the process. Remove any rocks or debris that you come across while raking and do not bring in new topsoil because it may contain seeds of weeds that are hard to control.
If you are wondering whether to put the seed or the lawn food first, it does not matter and it’s really up to you. Just be sure to use a drop or rotary spreader and to follow the settings on the packages. Seed and feed on the same day to give your new grass seedlings a great start and once they’ve both been laid down, cover the seeds with a thin layer of lawn soil, which you can do by gently dragging the back of a leaf rake.
Watering is extremely important because you do not want all of your efforts to go to waste. You need to ensure the top inch of your soil in your new lawn stays moist; otherwise, your grass seed will dry out. Water lightly about two to three times a day until your seedlings are established, after which you can reduce the frequency. The last step is maintenance, which you need to keep up with so that your new lawn remains healthy and grows vigorously.
Tackling a new lawn on your own is very possible but if you prefer to get professional care Schlager Excavating can help! Give us a call today and we will gladly provide you with more details!