How to Plant Grass in Virginia

Planting grass in Virgina

Because there are 50 types of grasses for lawns, a gardener can get confused as to what grass will grow in his or her particular region. Cool-season grass is better acclimated for growing in Virgina because of the state's climate. Types of cool-season grass include Kentucky bluegrass, red fescue and perennial ryegrass. Timing is additionally important when planting cool-weather grass for a lawn in Virginia. Late fall is the best time to plant grass seeds for a green expanse that can be maintained through the winter and spring months. Does this Spark an idea?

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Soil thermometer
Soil testing kit
Shovel
Bucket
Lime
Sulfur
Tiller
Seed spreader
Rake
Compost
Fertilizer
Lawn mower

Instructions

- 1
  
  Plant cool-season grass when soil temperatures have dipped to 55 to 65 F.
- 2
  
  Conduct a soil pH test. Dig 10 holes of 6 inches each to collect samples. Place samples in a bucket and mix them. Place at least 1/2 quart of the mix in the container provided for the soil test. Send the container to the laboratory.
- 3
  
  Amend the soil based on the results of the test. Spread lime if the soil is too acidic or sulfur if the soil is too alkaline. Follow the soil test recommendations for application amounts. Allow a couple of months to amend the soil before growing grass.
- 4
  
  Water the grass for three days before broadcasting the seeds. Till the soil to break up any clumps.
- 5
  
  Broadcast the grass seed by hand or with a seed spreader. Cover the grass seeds with at least 1/8 of an inch of dirt or compost. Water the newly planted lawn area with 1 inch of water.
- 6
  
  Apply a slow-release fertilizer that is high in nitrogen. Fertilize with 16-5-3 in April, 25-8-15 in September and 15-5-20 in October. Follow the directions on the label for dosage details.

Tips & Warnings

Remove thick thatch accumulation if the layer is more than 1/2 of an inch before seeding.
Avoid taking off more than 1/3 of the grass blade when mowing because it will harm the root system.

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Photo Credit Sloping landscape with trees and fog 20080615-1200634 image by SIGNSofMIND from Fotolia.com

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How to Plant Grass in Virginia

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