While in theory, grass seed can be thrown down at any time with a fair chance of success, to ensure the most consistent and pristine lawn possible, there are a couple of points in the year that are most suitable.
By following these steps you can sow a lawn perfect for the Summer BBQ season and the outdoor gatherings of friends and family that we’re all looking forward to.
Grass Seed vs Turf
Undoubtedly, the quickest way to lay down a lawn is by using turf, however it can be expensive, easily spoiled, and tricky to use on awkward shaped areas and gradients. Turf is also a perishable product with a short shelf life which, if not used on the day of delivery, can easily die.
Grass seed on the other hand is cost-effective and flexible, giving you a consistent look across your entire space with little wastage. You also have the option to use specialist seed mixes designed to suit your garden, such as mixes for shaded corners or high-traffic areas.
Sowing grass – Finding the ‘Goldilocks’ Period
Grass seed does require a good deal of effort to get right, but there are ways to ensure your energy is not wasted – the most important of which is to choose the right time of year to lay down the seed so that it has the best chance of fully germinating.
It is unlikely that you might be thinking of sowing grass seed in the depths of winter, but many people make the mistake of trying to do it in the middle of summer, which can cause just as many problems. A lack of rain, direct sunlight, and the temptation to play on the new surface can all lead to a barren wasteland, rather than the rich, green lawn you hoped for.
The best time of year is the Autumn, when temperatures are still hovering in the low teens, but the air and ground are moist as there is less competition from weeds. However, if you miss the opportunity to sow in autumn, try in mid-spring, but only if you can give the new grass plenty of water.
How to Sow Grass Seed Correctly
Proper preparation is key to growing a healthy lawn and the process starts with the soil. You should start by using your rake to remove any debris such as existing grass, weeds, stones, and litter then roughly leveling to leave a smooth, loose-textured surface.
Then use your feet to compact the soil, walking up and down the lawn before using the rake again to rough up the surface then add a granular fertiliser – ideally this should be done a day or two before you plan to seed.
You should then mark out your lawn using canes into a square meter grid then sow the seed evenly using a rough guide of 50g per square meter. You could use a seed spreader to make this easier, alternatively spread slowly and evenly using your hand or a trowel.
Lighty rake the aware once the seed is sown and thoroughly water, then continue watering daily for the next two weeks or until the seed have fully germinated, then water every three days until the grass is full-lenth, taking care to avoid using the space until the seeds have germinated.
If you are considering using seed to grow a lawn and would like to know more about the best mix for your lawn get in touch with our friendly team of experts.