The Best Way to Seed Grass

The best way to seed grass begins with picking the right kind of grass seed for your part of the country as well as your specific soil type. By doing a quick soil test, you can save yourself a lot of hassle later on in the growing season.

Determine Soil Type

Purchase a soil test from your county's extension office. Follow the directions in the kit and send it back to the extension center. If the test determines your soil has low pH, then add limestone to the soil before seeding. If it's too high, add powdered sulfur. Contact your local seed store to determine what grass type works best for your pH and area of the country.

Ready the Soil

Before seeding, till the area to a depth of 6 inches. Remove any weeds, roots, stones and other debris you find in the soil. Mix in any sulfur or limestone that your soil needs based on the results of the soil tests you performed. Use amounts as dictated by the chemical manufacturer's instructions.

Seeding

Seed the area based on the ratio of pounds per 1,000 square feet given in the seed's instructions. Sow half the seed in one direction and the other half in the opposite direction. Rake the area to make sure the seeds get into the soil and add mulch or straw to control moisture.

References

• Alabama Cooperative Extension: Bermudagrass Lawns
• University of Minnesota Extension: Lawn Grass Varieties, Seed Labels, and What to Plant Where