Growing grass seed

Grass seed is an affordable way to transform your garden

To assure success it is important that you select the appropriate seed for your garden. Consider the amount of sunlight your lawn area will receive and the quality of your soil. You should also take into account what type of grass seed grows best in your region.

Read the instructions on the seed packaging or ask your local garden centre for assistance. Purchase enough to cover the area you will be seeding. It is a good idea to purchase extra in case you need to reseed certain areas later.

Follow this step-by-step guide for a healthy new lawn:

1. Clear the area of all rocks, wood, debris or other material that would prohibit seeding. When clear add a layer of rich compost. Lay down a full 2.5 to 5cm over the area you are going to seed. You can also use dry manure or sphagnum peat moss. The idea here is to enrich the soil so the grass seed will germinate and grow.

2. Till the lawn. Use a garden tiller to dig up the yard. Tilling will help mix the compost with the soil creating a rich bed to seed. When tilling is complete, level the area with a rake.

3. Sow the grass seed. The best way to sow grass seed is with a rotary lawn spreader. This will assure you have uniform coverage. Take one-half of the seed and sow it in rows across the lawn. When complete, take the other half of the seed and sow it in rows at a right angle to the first criss-crossing the whole lawn. So simply spread half the seed in a north-south direction and the other half in an east-west direction.

4. Apply a fresh layer of mulch over the entire lawn. Carefully cover your newly sowed seed with a thin layer of mulch. This will help the soil retain moisture. You can use dry manure, compost, topsoil, or even straw.

5. Water your new lawn thoroughly. You should use a mist or light setting to keep from washing seed and soil away. Soak your new lawn a full 15cm deep and never let the grass seed dry out. Keeping your newly sowed lawn moist will ensure successful germination.

6. Watch your grass grow. Grass seed will start germinating after seven days. Some species take up to 30 days. Continue watering your lawn until the new grass is 2cm high. Water generously, otherwise your lawn will be patchy.

7. Start mowing your new lawn. As soon as your new lawn reaches 10cm high, you can safely mow. It is suggested you mow when the soil is dry, otherwise you risk tearing up your new lawn.

8. Fertilize your new lawn six weeks after germination. Be sure to follow the directions on the bag for applying to new lawns. New grass needs feeding so do not miss this important step.

Now relax and enjoy your new lawn.