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Seeding a Lawn

Source: NDSU Extension Service Horticulturist

Lawns may be seeded any time between May 10 and September 10 if sufficient water is available during germination and establishment of seedlings. Less water is required to establish lawns May 10-May 31 and August 15-September 10, when the temperatures are somewhat cooler.

Late summer lawn seeding is ideal for these reasons: (1) fewer weed problems, (2) warmer soil, (3) faster seed germination, (4) cool temperatures which favor the cool season grasses, and (5) less danger of heavy rains and erosion.

Do your grading first to insure proper yard drainage. Your lawn seedbed should be firm and free of large lumps. For even seed distribution, spread the seed with a seeder and not by hand. Do not cover the seed with more than 1/4 inch of soil. Roll or rake the surface lightly to put the seed in contact with the soil.

If your home is like most, it combines sunny and shady areas. So, you'll want a mixture of Kentucky Bluegrass, Perennial Ryegrass and Creeping Red Fescue for home lawns. Kentucky Bluegrass and Perennial Ryegrass will tend to predominate in the open, sunny areas, while Creeping Red Fescue will take over in the shade. Beware of lawn seed bargains. A good seed mixture should contain at least 50-60 percent bluegrass. Higher amounts of bluegrass are desirable.

Lawn seed is expensive, but it is better to apply enough seed to insure a satisfactory stand of grass. Use 1 to 2 pounds of seed per 1, 000 square feet of lawn area. Be prepared to water after seeding. Watering twice a day may be necessary to keep the germinating seedlings going during the critical germination period. After grass seed has germinated, watering may be reduced to twice per week or less, dependent on natural rainfall.

For future reference, you may want to obtain a copy of Extension bulletin H-244, "A Beautiful Lawn Can Be Yours," which is available at your county office of the NDSU Extension Service.

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