How to Plant Grass Seed

To replace an existing lawn, you will need to remove the old grass down to the roots with a sod cutter or kill the grass with a heavy duty herbicide. You will want to remove the grass once it is dead and follow the instructions as far as wait time until you apply new seed. In order for seed to germinate, you need good seed-to-soil contact.

For new sites, grading may be required. Proper grading helps water flow and drain better and makes it easier to start and mow lawns.

Test the pH of the soil to be sure it is between 6.5 and 7.4 The pH requirement does vary with different types of grass so a little bit of research on the grass you choose can go a long way. Alkaline soils can be amended with elemental sulfur while overly acidic soils should be amended with a high quality lime. We recommend Solu-cal Enhanced Lime.

Apply Lesco Starter Fertilizer 18-24-12 to get your seed off on the right foot.

You have prepared your site and are ready to seed your lawn! Broadcast your seed at the recommended rate. Using a spreader helps keep your seeds evenly dispersed and helps eliminate bald patches. You can use a rake to gently mix the seeds in with your soil or apply a very thin layer of soil over the seeds.

Cover the area with a thin layer of straw to hold your seeds in place. This is especially crucial for sloped areas and hills. We also recommend using peat moss or Lesco Triple Start

How long does it take grass seeds to germinate? Germination time varies amongst different types of grasses. Even the same seed will germinate at varying rates within different climates. Tall Fescues usually take 7 to 10 days to germinate, while Fine Fescues for shady spots can take up to 21 days. Perennial Ryegrass can germinate in 3 to 5 days. Grass seed blends for sun and shade mixed sites are likely to germinate at different times because they contain different types of grass including tall fescue, perennial ryegrass, and Kentucky bluegrass. You can expect just about any grass to emerge within 7 to 21 days as long as it is kept moist.

Keep your new grass seeds consistently moist by watering 2 to 3 times per day with a misting spray until germination. The goal is to keep the soil and seed moist, but not wet, and keep your seeds in place. Once your grass has germinated begin to water heavier, but less often and spacing out waterings. You should be able to walk on your lawn without sinking.