Tips to Keep New Grass Alive

It’s that time of year! The leaves are changing colors, there’s a breeze in the air, and the days are getting shorter. In the world of lawn care, the fall is known for something else: aerating and overseeding! When you aerate your soil, you are alleviating soil compaction. This process involves perforating the soil with small holes that give air, water, and nutrients access to the grass roots, which allows grass seed to find a cozy spot in the soil. Overseeding is just what it sounds like! Spreading grass seed liberally in the areas you aerate to help fill in any patches or make other areas more luscious. It might take some patience, but once you see the fruits of your labor starting to grow, use these tips to keep new grass alive.

Tips to Keep New Grass Alive

• Choose the right seed. If you want your new grass to thrive, first, you need to make sure you choose the right seed. What grass thrives in Pennsylvania is different than what might work best across the country in California.
• Keep off! Any traffic on the lawn risks root damage. Explain to kids the new area is not suitable for play, and walk your pets on a leash to an appropriate place to go to the bathroom.
• Water well. Unlike a typical watering schedule, new grass needs more frequent watering. Right after seeding, mist your grass four times a day when the sun is out (generally 7AM to 6PM). The goal is to keep the seedbed moist without oversaturating it. Once the grass grows to be about 2″H, reduce the frequency but increase the depth of watering.
• Mow the right way. Mow your grass when it reaches between 3″H and 4″H, and do not cut it shorter than 2″H. Stop watering a day or two before you mow because the grass will respond better when dry. Also, be gentle with your mower and do not make sudden or sharp turns.
• Get help from Green Lawn Fertilizing. We know just how to take care of your lawn to ensure it thrives. Call us today at 855-469-0692 to learn about our Green Lawn Program.