Seeding and caring for grass - demystified

Our research indicated The Dutch, historically, have cultivated some of the best grass seed.

Grass seeding is best done in the spring, when the expectation of rain is reasonable. The ground should be raked to agitate the surface soil layer and provide texture optimal for the seeding process. A coarse texture that will allow seeds to fall between the cracks in the soil is highly recommended.

When seeding, consider using a spreader or seed caster to provide correct and even dispersion of seed. These devices come in many sizes; from small handheld hand-crank to tractor towed models. This is an off-the-shelf seed caster that can hold 1kg or 2-3 lbs and powered by a turn crank.

Spread some black loam soil mix over the ground area to be seeded, then spread the seed out – ensuring heavy and even seed saturation into the soil. Then very lightly cover the grass seed with more black loam or topsoil to prevent seed-blowing or seed-runoff.

If no rain is forecasted within 24 hours-48 hours, water heavily and saturate the soil. Do not allow the water to wash the seedloam away. Water as required based on your sun exposure and local conditions. Much of the success in growing grass from seed comes from careful attention to your on-site conditions. Ensure the soil maintains a reasonable moisture content. Remember that more water is not always better, too much will cause the seed to rot.

Use your best judgement and share any tips.

There are multiple varieties of grass seed available to serve specific niches such as fescues that form mounds and require little to no mowing. Very hardy grass mixes with yarrow withstand mowing and foot traffic. Some seeds will require additional fertilization but there are also many that do not, such as the Kentucky Bluegrass and certain perennial Ryegrasses. If you have a small shaded lot, your demands will differ from someone seeding acres. For larger lots, consider specialized varieties for sun exposure like Timothy, Creeping Red fescue, etc.

Spring is the ideal time to seed grass! Images are labelled for reuse. Thank you.