Which Lawn Seed is right for me?
Several factors must be considered in selecting the proper lawn mixture for your needs. They include climate, soil conditions, use characteristics and degree of sun or shadiness.
Most mixtures are composed of Kentucky bluegrass, chewing or creeping red fine fescues, fine-leafed perennial ryegrass and turf-type tall fescues. Because most homeowners have a wide range of conditions to deal with in their lawns, a mixture of two or more of the following grass species is recommended:
• Kentucky Bluegrass is a widely adapted variety noted for its uniform, dense sod-forming characteristics, beautiful dark color and excellent wearability.
• Perennial ryegrass, a fine-leafed perennial that is gaining wide usage throughout the United States, and is especially well adapted to the coastal region. Similar to bluegrass in texture, wearability and color, perennial ryegrass has the distinct advantage of quick germination and rapid establishment.
• Fine fescues, known for their superior shade tolerance, fine fescues are the backbone of most lawn mixtures designed for shade use. Fine fescues require less water and fertilizer, making them an excellent choice for low-maintenance areas.
• Turf-type tall fescues, the new elite turf-type tall fescues are particularly well suited for high-use areas because of their outstanding toughness. Lawns planted with improved tall fescues are gaining rapid popularity in all parts of the United States because of their improved color, finer leaves and slower growth habit.
APPLYING SEED
When should I seed my lawn?
The best time to plant a new lawn or renovate an existing one is in the early spring and late summer.
Do I need to prepare the lawn for seeding?
Yes. Prepare seed bed by tilling soil to a depth of 2 to 3 inches, then leveling, raking out any clods or rocks from the top 2 inches of soil. Spread fertilizer and lime according to manufactures recommendations.
How do I apply the lawn seed?
Spread seed with a drop spreader or a broadcast spreader, rake lightly to mix the seed into the top 1/4 inch of soil. Roll with a light roller to press the seed into the soil.
In dry weather, spread 1/8 to 1/4 inch of mulch (straw or sawdust) to keep the seeds moist. Add mulch lightly by hand whenever the mulch begins to dry out. Keep new seedlings moist with frequent, gentle watering.
