What Fertilizer Should Be Used in a Hydroseeder?

Phosphorous is critical for newly seeded lawns.

When hydroseeding lawns, a starter fertilizer should be incorporated into the tank mix. Starter fertilizers contain higher levels of phosphorous than fertilizers for established lawns. Grass seedlings require phosphorous for proper root development.

Why Hydroseed

Hydroseeding can create a thick, dense turf to outcompete weeds.

Hydroseeding is the process of applying seed, fertilizer, mulch and water on a prepared area all in one step. It requires proper equipment for even distribution and is most often performed by a landscape professional.

Starter Fertilizers

Make sure to use a fertilizer labeled as a starter fertilizer.

A starter fertilizer such as 5-10-10 or 10-20-20 should be incorporated into the hydroseed. A rate of 10 lbs. per 1,000 square feet of 5-10-10 or 5 lbs. of 10-20-20 per 1,000 square feet of lawn area should be used.

Role of Nutrients

Nitrogen is another critical element in starter fertilizers for hydroseeding.

Fertilizers that contain nitrogen, phosphorous and potassium (NPK) are known as complete fertilizers and should be used when starting new lawns by hydroseed or by hand. Nitrogen is for proper blade and leaf development, phosphorous is for proper root development and potassium is critical for disease resistance.

References

• University of Minnesota; Seeding Rates and Planting Methods - Hydroseeding and Hydromulching; 2006
• North Carolina State University; Seeding a New Lawn; Erv Evans
• University of Illinois Extension; Tips on Starting a New Lawn; Sandra Mason; August 2002