subject: 6 Tips For Building A Better Lawn [print this page] How does you lawn stack up? Below are 6 quick tips to help you build better turf.
1. For a Level Lawn, do the heavy work in the subsoil. Use a taut string for lining up smooth grades, clear away stones and debris, and eliminate ridges and depressions. Then replace topsoil to depth of six inches, allowing for later settling. Mix fertilizer, organic matter, lime at this stage of work.
2. Preparing the Seedbed is a job for a large wooden rake. Note angle for moving loose soil to fill up small depressions. Raking out small stones should be done now. Then roll to make a firm smooth seed bed. Finally loosen top half inch of soil with rake or light harrow for germinating layer.
3. Seeding is the smallest part of the work. Divide seed into two parts, then sow half in one direction, other half at right angles, for even distribution. Best time for seeding a lawn is from mid-August to the end of September. Good grass seed is worth the extra cost in the result: weed-free turf. Hold off on the lawn fertilizer.
4. Raking after seeding should be done very lightly. Use wooden rake, first in one direction, then at right angles. Just the weight of the rake is enough. Only a little soil over seeds is needed - about 1/8 inch. Even covering gives even germination. Under-soil should be moist, top dry enough to rake.
5. Rolling after seeding brings seeds into contact with warm, moist soil and promotes quick germination. Use water ballast roller with most of water removed. Roll lightly in two directions. Then protect new areas by marking boundaries with string stretched between stakes. Keep feet off the new lawn!
6. Watering requires care. Use fine spray from hose regularly until grass is well up, then use a lawn sprinkler to insure deep penetration to roots. September rains help get a new lawn well started. A word of caution: overwatering will produce a stagnant soil condition and poor aeration.
