How do I sow my lawn NZ?
5 Steps to Lawn Success Clear away existing grass and weeds, then apply a layer of lawn preparation mix. Choose a lawn seed suited to your climate and lawn use. Sow seed on a fine day, rake gently to cover seed and water lightly. Feed your lawn in spring and autumn with a specialised lawn fertiliser.
When should I start sowing my lawn?
Grass seed is best sown from late summer to mid-autumn; there is less competition from weeds, and the soil is warm, and damp from rain. Perfect for seeds to germinate. If you miss the opportunity to sow in autumn, try in mid-spring, but only if you can give the new grass plenty of water.
What month Should you seed your lawn?
Generally speaking, you can plant grass seed any time of the year, but fall is the best time to seed a lawn with a cool season turfgrass variety. Spring is the best time to plant warm season turfgrass seed. Cool season varieties of grass seed include tall fescue seed, ryegrass seed or even Kentucky bluegrass seed.
What time of year is best to seed lawn?
Plant cool-season grass seed in late summer or early fall (when daytime temperatures lower to about 60 to 75 degrees) for best success. September is typically the best month, although you might be able to get away with seeding as early as mid-August or as late as mid-October; it all depends on the forecast.
Should I put soil over grass seed?
Grass seed is best planted at a depth of about ⅛ inch to ¼ inch below the surface. Many think that putting topsoil over the seeds would protect it, but in fact, that will actually suffocate the seedlings rather than doing any good. We suggest that straw, hay, or any other type of mulching material be used.
Do you put topsoil down before grass seed?
If you are seeding a bare lawn or a bare patch of soil, you do not need to add topsoil before spreading grass seed. Simply till and prepare the bare soil. If you are overseeding, spread compost or topsoil prior to seeding. Use only a thin layer of topsoil/compost when overseeding.
Should I put topsoil down before grass seed?
If you are seeding a bare lawn or a bare patch of soil, you do not need to add topsoil before spreading grass seed. Instead, you can prepare the soil by tilling and loosening it, making it perfect for grass seed. Simply till and prepare the bare soil. If you are overseeding, spread compost or topsoil prior to seeding.
What happens if you don’t rake in grass seed?
Germination and Watering If you do not rake the area or cover it thickly with soil, the grass seeds fail to grow from erosion issues and suffocation, respectively. You should be able to see some seeds poking out of the soil with a proper raking.
Is topsoil or compost better for grass seed?
When overseeding, use compost, not topsoil. Compost provides more nutrients and moisture than topsoil. Compost breaks down to increase soil performance. Topsoil will not provide the optimal habitat for grass seeds and it won’t break down over time, leading to an unsightly, dirty yard.
Will grass seed grow if you just throw it on the ground?
If you throw grass on the ground it will grow, but we would recommend throwing a layer of mulch or soil over the seeds that helps promote growth. Bermuda seed needs to be covered to germinate.
When to sow lawn seed in New Zealand?
In the warmer northern areas of New Zealand, lawn seed can be sown all year round, although germination will be slower during winter months. Allow 3-7 days during the warmer summer months and 10-20 days during the cooler months. Spray existing lawn area with general weed killer. Clear away all stones and unwanted debris.
How to care for a lawn in New Zealand?
Autumn and spring are the best times for lawn care in New Zealand. Clear away existing grass and weeds, then apply a layer of lawn preparation mix. Choose a lawn seed suited to your climate and lawn use. Sow seed on a fine day, rake gently to cover seed and water lightly. Feed your lawn in spring and autumn with a specialised lawn fertiliser.
What’s the best way to sow a lawn?
Using a rotary or drop spreader, sow seed evenly. You can cover the seeds by using a lightweight rake and dragging the back of it over the area. Or, you can apply a one-inch layer of mulch if the weather is going to be hot and dry or there’s going to be drying winds.
When is the best time to sow grass?
A mix of fine turf grasses including fine leaf rye, fescue and browntop is recommended for a top quality lawn. Spring (August to November) and autumn (March to May) are ideal sowing seasons.