Autumn is a great time to be preparing your lawn ready for next year.
Did you know that up to 25% of your lawn grasses die each year. If left, it may result in the stronger more undesirable grasses taking over from the consistent green texture you desire.
If you’re looking for a green and healthy lawn, the answer includes over seeding — a natural way to thicken your lawn and crowd out undesirable weeds.
Sowing new seed into an existing lawn, a technique used by professionals is known as “over seeding”. It’s used to restore worn areas and is a natural way to thicken your lawn and crowd out undesirable weeds.
We have some tips to help you achieve a healthy, lush lawn this autumn
1. OVERSEED AND REJUVENATE YOUR LAWN
THE BASICS – It can be time-consuming if you have a large lawn, but the results are well worth the effort, dramatically improving the health and appearance of your lawn.
WHERE – If the lawn is looking in a poor condition, thinning/bare areas or you notice a lot of weeds in areas of the lawn.
WHEN – Spring and late August to October.
2. LAWN REPAIRS
THE BASICS – Patches in lawns can appear for a number of reasons, and when they do, it is always advisable to repair your lawn. Although it may seem sensible to just turf the area, the problem may reoccur. So the best method is often to over seed, which is generally the best long-term solution and will help prevent weeds germinating in the patches.
WHERE – If your lawn is thin and patchy and has brown spots, perhaps from physical damage or wear and tear, should be repaired.
WHEN – Ideally in spring or autumn, when the weather is damp and cool, as the lawn is most likely to recover well in these conditions.
3. KEY POINTS TO SUCCESS
Good ground preparation is vital for a successful lawn and lawn seeding project.
Mow the lawn to a short height and rake to remove debris and thatch. If needed, kill off any weeds or moss a week or so before scarifying, to prevent it from spreading to other areas.
Sow the seed in accordance with the instructions on the packet.
Lightly rake over.
Roll lightly or walk over to press the seed into the soil.
WATERING – This is key:Water in thoroughly, avoiding washing away any soil or seed.
Keep well watered until the grass is established and growing strongly.
Once established, lightly trim the grass and then follow through with regular mowing every couple of weeks.
REMEMBER
Don’t panic if grass doesn’t appear in 2-3 days.
Autumn germination will typically take 2-3 weeks, depending on temperature and species of grass.
Keep the area well watered, every few days if the weather is dry until the grass is established and growing strongly.
4. WHICH GRASS SEED?
Not all grass seed is the same, we recommend Green Velvet from Barenbrug available from our on line shop.