Test Soil Obtain a soil test kit from the Extension office, and follow directions for sampling.
applied according to label directions.
Where weeds are interspersed, use an appropriate broadleaf herbicide. Contact the Horticulture Help Desk for assistance with identifying weeds and appropriate herbicides to control them.
Glyphosate, sold as Roundup or Kleenup, applied according to label directions. Remove dead vegetation.
Note: All herbicides have a wait period between when they are applied and when seeds can be planted. Read the label for specific information about the wait time for any herbicide you use.
Following irrigation or a soaking rain, 2-3 passes with a core aerator Following irrigation or a soaking rain, 2-3 passes with a core aerator. Rough up bare areas with a garden rake Layer total amount of recommended lime, fertilizer, and ¼-2” organic matter, before tilling to a depth of 4 – 6”. Rake smooth and use a roller to ensure good seed to soil contact.
Liming Apply lime according to soil test recommendations. If liming cannot be done at this time (your schedule doesn’t permit it), lime can be applied anytime that the soil is not frozen.
Overseed at a minimum rate of 2-3 lbs/1000 sq. feet. Choose appropriate seed type. Contact the Horticulture Help Desk for assistance with identifying appropriate seed. Same recommendations as previous column except on bare spots, which should be covered thoroughly. Same recommendations as previous column except increase seed rate to a minimum 4-6 lbs/1000 sq. feet.
Watering For all three options, maintain good moisture in the top 1/4 or 1/2 inch of soil. This will require several light waterings per day for 10 to 14 days after seeding when there is not adequate rainfall. The objective is not to allow the seedbed to dry out. Once the grass seedlings are up, apply 1/2 inch of water every 2 to 3 days, when rainfall is short, until the seedlings are well-established (normally 30 -35 days after seeding).
Mowing Begin mowing as soon as your new grass is 3 to 4 inches tall. Mow with a sharp blade and never remove more than 1/3 of blade. Recycle clippings to return nutrients to soil.
(At least 30 days after germination of new grass) Apply fertilizer according to recommendations on your soil test reports or in your custom nutrient management plan.
NOTE: Skip application if ground is frozen.
September is the ideal time to renovate your lawn in our area in most years, but you can still be successful if you seed in late August or early October. It is important to provide adequate moisture for new grass to germinate, all the way through establishment and maintenance. Remember applying herbicides before or after you seed may have a negative impact on establishment.
Have you tried and still cannot get a good stand of turf? There are areas in many yards where it is extremely difficult to grow grass because of things like heavy shade, poor drainage, steep slopes, etc. These areas may not be suitable for establishing a stand of grass.
Feel free to contact us at the Horticulture Help Line at 703 792-7747 or email bestlawns@pwcgov.org for assistance with the steps for seeding your lawn, what amendments to apply at seeding, what grasses may be suitable for your lawn, dealing with difficult areas, or finding more appropriate plants to grow in troublesome spots.
Commercial products are named in this publication for informational purposes only. Virginia Cooperative Extension does not endorse these products and does not intend discrimination against other products that also may be suitable.