Your neighbors will ask, “What’s your secret?”

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Big Garden Grass Field Mowing by Caucasian Gardener

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When asked, “What is the best turfgrass species and variety for my lawn?”

Allow at least 90 days for the turf to establish before the expected first frost.

Cool-season turfgrasses are best established in early autumn, but germinate equally well inspring.

Hand planting grass seed for lawn

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“Autumn seeding allows more months of maturing before their first hot summer,” Martin explains.

As a rule of thumb, sow cool-season grass at least 45 days before the expected first frost.

Starting a new lawn requires some specialized equipment.

Green lawn seed

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Consult your grass seed package instructions for further details.

Prepare the soil.

Remove that surface debris and then rake the area to create a smooth, firm planting bed.

Assortment of garden tools with green grass in the background

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Spread this mixture at a rate of 1 to 2 pounds nitrogen per 1000 square feet.

Spread grass seed.

Cover the seeds.

Gardner using equipment in the garden on lawn

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After seeding, use a rake to lightly cover the seed with soil no more than 18-inch deep.

Water the seeds.

you’re able to beginmowingthe new lawn when your grass reaches your intended cutting height.

Surface level view of backyard sprinkler spraying on lawn

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Mowing will promote lateral spread.

Check the pre-emergent herbicide label for the recommended window after tool.

To begin overseeding, cut the lawn very short and bag the clippings.

Fresh cut green grass

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“If temperature and moisture are not conducive, it will be a long time to never, correct?

Example: seeding out turfgrass seed at the North Pole!”

“Also, what if a pre-emergent herbicide were in place already and you seeded into it?”

Seeds can grow rancid if left in moist conditions.

They also lose potency over time.

“Do not allow the seed to get hot or moist,” he warns.

Place the bag in a warm area for ten days and watch for germination.

If fewer than five seeds sprout, you have less than 50 percent viability and should get fresh seed.

This calculates to 175 to 250 pounds per acre.

Always check the back of your seed bag for the company’s preferred calculations.