The weather has been great BUT..

We've been having some terrific weather lately, but the lack of rainfall means your new grass seed needs you more than ever. If you'd like a thick, healthy lawn next spring, then it is important that you keep your freshly-laid seed properly watered.

The type of grass seed you have in your yard will dictate how long it needs to stay moist. Perennial ryegrass takes around 5-7 days to germinate, while bluegrass and tall fescue seed can take up to a month. Typically, your seed will need to be watered every day, with just enough water to keep it moist (about 15 minutes of steady watering).

It is best to water in the late afternoon. That way, water will not have the opportunity to evaporate before nightfall and dry out the grass seed in the process. If your seed does happen to dry out before it germinates, it will typically die.  

Remember: all varieties of seed depend on sunlight for germination. Keeping your lawn free of leaves and other debris will ensure that newly laid seed receives the light it needs to thrive.   One or two rain events is not enough water for optimal germination, light frequent watering is key!

 

The Weather Has Been Great But...

We've experienced some great weather these past few weeks from Abington to Limerick, however, the lack of rainfall can catch up with your lawn, especially new seed.

Fall is a great time to aerate and seed your lawn.  Core aeration is the healthiest thing you can do for your lawn all year besides keeping it fed.  Relieving soil compaction, reducing thatch, and improving the flow of air, water, and nutrients to the root zone and helping your lawn 'breathe' are just some of the many benefits.

Keeping new seed moist throughout the germination process, usually 3-4 weeks will help maximize the germination of your seed.  Initially, 30-40 minutes of water will help set up the seed, then light, frequent watering, 10-15 minutes per day is typically sufficient.

Remember, keep the leaves up!  All seed needs sunlight to germinate.  Follow these simple steps and help introduce new, healthy turf varieties into your lawn this fall to help improve the overall density of your lawn.