Slice Seeding vs Hydroseeding vs Overseeding vs Sod
Is your lawn sporting dead, patchy, or thin spots?
When it comes to setting your lawn up for new growth success, you have many options. Learn the differences between slice seeding, hydroseeding, sod, and overseeding, and which is best for your lawn.
Table of Contents
Slice Seeding
What is Slice Seeding?
Slice seeding, sometimes referred to as slit seeding, is done with a machine that cuts the ground and deposits seeds into the newly formed slits. Slice Seeding is considered one of the most intense seeding methods because it slices up your lawn including existing healthy grass.
Slice seeding is only recommended for small patches or lawns that require a complete renovation.
Benefits of Using a Slice Seeder
Because the seeds are nestled carefully in the soil slits, they have a greater chance to germinate than if you just sprinkle seeds over your lawn.
Drawbacks of Slice Seeding
When using slice seeding, existing grass can be disrupted, resulting in bare spots. Additionally, this method often necessitates a significant amount of water for the seeds to finally germinate.
How Much Does Slice Seeding Cost?
Slice seeding cost can be considered an expensive choice because of the required machinery and time investment. The cost ranges from $0.09 to $0.18 per square foot.
Hydroseeding
What is Hydroseeding?
A combination of seed, fertilizer, mulch, and soil amendments are used in hydroseeding. The components are mixed with water and then sprayed onto a lawn. It should only be used on lawns that have healthy, aerated soil, as the seeds are laid atop the soil instead of being deposited in the ground.
Benefits of Hydroseeding
Hydroseeding is an effective method for seeding slopes where it’s challenging to manage machinery. The moist mix sticks to the ground rather than sliding down the hill as runoff. The process is quick and requires minimal setup.
Limitations of Hydroseeding
Hydroseeding does not always result in the successful germination of seeds due to the lack of soil incorporation. The amount of water used for hydroseeding should be carefully controlled so that it is just enough for the seeds to germinate without washing away the seed applied.
How Much Does Hydroseeding Cost?
Hydroseeding costs between $0.06 to $0.20 per square foot. The cost greatly depends on the expertise of the lawn care company you choose and the quality of the slurry mix used.
Overseeding
What is Overseeding?
Overseeding is appropriately named because it involves using more seed on your lawn than might be necessary to give grass a greater chance of germinating. It is combined with a process called aeration, which involves pulling “plugs” or “cores” out of the soil to break up compaction and allow seeds to settle in the soil.
Should I Aerate Before Seeding?
Aerating your lawn before seeding is highly recommended and can significantly enhance the success of your seeding efforts.
Benefits of Aeration & Overseeding
Aeration and overseeding give your lawn’s root zone more access to air, sun, water, nutrients, and fertilizers to help roots grow deeper and healthier. These healthy roots make your turf more tolerant to stress from heat and drought. The additional grass seed also helps to crowd out weeds, creating a better-looking lawn.
How Much Does it Cost to Aerate & Overseed?
The cost of aeration and overseeding varies, generally somewhere between $0.05 to $0.20 per square foot. It is a cost-effective choice to help your turf grow thick and healthy.
Sod
What is Sod?
Sod is established grass that has first been grown and harvested at a sod farm. It is delivered to you as rolls of grass, soil, and roots. Simply roll it onto your aerated soil, and you have an instant lawn!
Benefits of Sod
Laying sod is the quickest way to give your lawn that carpet-like appearance because the grass is already grown and healthy. It is a solution for lawns that can’t establish new seeds for a variety of reasons. Sod creates an instant, attractive lawn.
Drawbacks of Sod
While sod can provide an almost-instant pristine lawn, it can be a costly option for larger areas. Improper soil preparation is a common issue that can affect how well the sod root and grow, leading to uneven growth or die-off patches. Once laid, the sod must be watered frequently and maintained thoroughly for an extended period, which can eat into your schedules.
How Much Does Sod Cost?
The cost to buy and install sod is nearly 10 times more than seed.
Sod itself costs between $0.30 to $0.85 per square foot (depending on the variety). Add in installation, and your cost per square foot is closer to $1 to $2.
Green Lawn Fertilizing chooses aeration and overseeding to help your lawn grow thick and healthy.
Lawn aeration is most effective when performed by experts. At Green Lawn Fertilizing, we understand your compacted turf won’t thrive and new seeds you’re planting won’t take. That’s why we provide aeration and overseeding services. Contact us today at 855-469-0692 for a free consultation to help your lawn reach its full potential.
