Starting a new lawn
from seed SEEDS OF SUCCESS
3.MEASURE
Lawn seed is an economical way to start a fresh new lawn, helping to create a lush green space that will be an area of enjoyment and fun for years to come. Spring is a great time to start a new lawn from seed, as the temperature is mild and the grass seed can germinate and establish before the heat of summer arrives.
Measure the area and calculate the correct amount of lawn seed.
Here’s how to start a new lawn from seed and some extra tips to keep your lawn looking great. 1.WEED
CONTROL
Weeds will compete with the new lawn so should be controlled 2 weeks before sowing lawn seed, which allows the weeds to die completely. Yates® Zero® Weedkiller can be used as a general spray over the area to kill any weeds and existing grasses. 2.SOIL
PREPARATION
Lawn seed should be sown into well drained, firm but not compacted soil that is rich in organic matter. Give the lawn seed the best possible start by mixing some Yates Dynamic Lifter® Organic Lawn Food into the topsoil. It’s a concentrated blend of composted manure, blood and bone, fishmeal and seaweed and will improve soil structure and provide gentle, slow release organic nutrients to the new grass seedlings as they grow. An application of lawn top dressing can also benefit lawn establishment where the existing soil is heavy clay, poor and sandy or the surface is uneven.
4.SOW Rake the soil surface in straight lines to create shallow furrows. Broadcast the seed evenly over the area. It helps to halve the seed mix and sow half in an east west direction and the other half in a north south direction. After sowing, lightly cross rake the area to mix the seed into the topsoil. 5.WATER Water the area with a fine mist spray. It is very important that the top soil remains moist for the first 14–21 days to complete germination. This may require watering several times a day if the weather is hot or windy. As the grass establishes, the number of waterings can be reduced but increase the volume of water at each watering. 6.MOW Mow the grass when it is 5-6cm high, so you just cut the top 1cm off the top. This will help to encourage root growth. As the lawn matures, lower the blades of the mower on successive cuts.
TURF TIP: If you’re starting a new lawn with rolls of turf, before laying rolls mix Yates Dynamic Lifter Organic Lawn Food into the topsoil, which will promote root growth and encourage the new turf to establish.
