HOW TO TAKE CARE OF YOUR NEW SEEDED LAWN
WATERING
The most critical
factor in the success of your new lawn is watering. The first 30 days
short frequent waterings to maintain moisture in the newly seeded lawn
is important. As the lawn matures, longer, less frequent waterings are
needed. After 30 days, waterings should be long and deep (30-45
minutes). This allows moisture to seep well into the soil and
encourages a deep root system and drought resistance. In all cases
monitor waterings to avoid run-off.
MOWING
Your lawn is ready for
mowing in about 3 weeks. Cut to a height of 1 1/4 to 1 1/2
inches.
From then on mow your lawn once a week. It is recommended to remove
grass clippings for the first year, after one year a mulching mower is
ok to use if desired.
THATCHING
Thatching will be
necessary once a year if a mulching mower is used, if grass clippings
are removed thatching once every 2 years is recommended. The advantage
of leaving the clippings are, Natural nitrogen is put back into the
soil to help green your lawn and less yard waste to dispose
of.
AERATION-HOLE PUNCHING-
CORING.
Roots need air as well as water and
nutrients for growth. Lawns, especially those that receive heavy use,
can develop compacted, air-deficient soil. Compacted soil also
restricts water absorption. Aeration once every year is recommended for
heavy use lawn. Aeration once every 2 years is recommended for moderate
use.
FERTILIZING
Fertilize your
lawn after 60 days from installation with a 24-4-8 (nitrogen -
potassium - potash) with a minimum of 40% organic nitrogen or
equivalent. Spread fertilizer with a broadcast type spreader when the
lawn is dry to avoid burning. Make 2 or 3 passes to ensure proper
coverage and eliminate striping. Water deeply after applying
fertilizer. Staining of concrete is caused by iron in the micro-
nutrients. Hose off all concrete areas to avoid staining. Drop
spreaders are not recommended for fertilizing. Striped lawns are the
result of improper drop spreader applications. Continue to fertilize
every 4 to 6 weeks for the next 2 years, except for December, January,
and February. Apply in the Spring and summer months a 24-4-8 or
equivalent. Apply in the Fall a 4-16-20 or equivalent. Apply Dolomite
Lime once in March and again in October. After the 2 years, fertilize 4
times a year (the 4 seasons). To avoid lawn damage, do not apply any
weed control within the first 90 days. After that period, lawn weeds
that may appear are controlled by using a hand tool or a liquid
herbicide. Weed and Feeds are not recommended for a least a year.
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