Can i plant grass in the fall

If patching an already existing lawn, try to match your new seed with the type of lawn already in place. Nothing looks stranger than a patch of tall fescue, growing in a zoysia lawn. Step 2 — Prepare the soil For planting a new lawn section: Loosen the top 2 to 3 inches of soil. Remove debris sticks, stones, etc from the area.

Break up soil clumps larger than a half dollar. Avoid soil that is too fine. Small clumps are acceptable. Level the areas where excess water might collect. Be patient. You can let the good times roll once the grass is established and reaches mowing height of about two-and—a-half inches.

That usually takes about a month. A lot of homeowners lay down straw to protect their seeds from critters, or prevent them from getting washed away by heavy rains.

In moderation. Make it a light layer. Speaking of shade, be aware of your trees, too. They cast shadows, and grass needs light. Proper soil preparation is a must. This is best accomplished by either verticutting the lawn or through core aeration. These machines open the surface and allow the seed to come in contact with the soil. Timely irrigation is also very important. Once the seed is sown the upper surface of the soil should remain damp at all times. This may require daily, light applications.

It all depends on the amount of sun and wind. Be prepared to water when needed as lack of water will slow establishment. An application of fertilizer at the time of seeding is also a good idea. This will help nourish not only the new seedlings, but will give the existing turf a much needed boost.

Establishment and Aftercare Depending on the grass species, it can take several weeks or months to fully establish new seedlings. As seedlings mature they develop their independent root system they require to grow healthy and withstand the natural stresses of its environment. Special aftercare is involved as it relates to mowing during establishment.

New seedlings are tender and can be easily damaged if mowing frequency and mowing height are not adjusted to favour the seedlings. Wait weeks after full germination until regular mowing practices are adopted.

Watering practices can also be adjusted to a deep and infrequent schedule provided the seedlings are not stressed. Balanced fertility is recommended to maintain and provide the essential plant nutrients the seedlings require to promote healthy establishment and growth. Follow us on Facebook or Pinterest for more turf tips. Related Posts. Spring is highly regarded as one of the best times to plant grass seed.