It doesn’t take long for the local birds to spot the fresh grass seed you’ve tossed out on the lawn.
You can also spread plenty of seeds without seeing any new production, even after a few weeks.
What can you do to care for a newly seeded lawn so that it grows lush and green?
How to Water a Newly Seeded Lawn
Watering is an essential part of the seed germination process. You cannot let the seeds dry out at all during this work. If your area is experiencing a drought or doesn’t have access to irrigation, you’ll want to wait until enough moisture is available.
Here are some other facts to consider when watering a newly seeded lawn.
- Newly seeded lawns require daily watering.
- When the weather is dry and windy, several light waterings each day is often helpful. You’ll also want to check soil conditions when hot or humidity levels are low.
- Sandy soil dries out quickly, requiring extra irrigation.
When the seedlings start growing, you can reduce the watering frequency. The water should reach the root zone, requiring the top four to six inches to be moist.
How to Mow a Newly Seeded Lawn
Mowing a lawn too short causes the grass to become susceptible to weed infestations, drought injury, and foot traffic damage. The same issue occurs if it doesn’t receive enough attention throughout the year.
You’ll want to let the seeds germinate and begin establishing a root base before mowing it. The seeds can get blown to different locations if you send the equipment across the yard too soon. Your work could even damage them.
It usually takes four to six weeks for a lawn to be ready for mowing after being newly seeded. If the work is finished in the early spring, the seedlings will be ready for that first pass over the yard.
How to Fertilize a Newly Seeded Lawn
The fertilizer a newly seeded lawn requires is dependent on the current soil conditions. You’ll need to test to determine what modifications are necessary.
It’s usually reasonable to provide fertilizer about six to eight weeks after you’ve completed the seeding. Any follow-up applications are appropriate based on the regular maintenance program developed by your local lawn care agency or the instructions provided by the product’s manufacturer.
If the seeding happens in the spring, you’ll want to avoid applying fertilizer after June 1. For fall seedings, don’t apply feed after November 15.
How to Manage Traffic on a Newly Seeded Lawn
Seedlings are easily injured. Foot traffic restrictions should remain in place while the grass grows for at least a month after germination. Complete lawn usage can return after you’ve mowed the lawn at least twice.
When you know how to care for a newly seeded lawn, you can maximize the improvements this investment can make. If you have any questions, please feel free to reach out to a local professional or lawn care company for some affordable help!
