Seeding Your Lawn
When it comes to seeding new lawns, good preparation is usually the key to success. Before you sow the seeds, it's important to prepare the soil adequately.
When to Sow
Spring
Late March to early May (without irrigation)
Autumn
Mid August to mid September (without irrigation)
With Irrigation
Possible throughout the growing season
Clear the Site
Clear the site completely, removing any large stones, rubble, all plant growth, and any tree stumps or roots. If the area is partially turfed but in poor condition, remove all the turf. It's sensible to clear the ground using a weed killer initially, as it can be more difficult to eliminate weed grasses once the lawn is established.
Prepare the Soil
Rotavate or dig the soil, removing any large stones that come to the surface. A lawn grows best on medium loam — try to produce a soil as near to this as possible. For heavy clay soil, add sand or fine peat. For sandy soil, dig in moisture-holding material such as well-rotted manure or compost.
Level the Area
Level the area using pegs and a spirit level, or a laser level. If there's a substantial drop, remove topsoil first and set it aside, then remove subsoil to the required depth and return the topsoil. For large areas, ordering a load of good quality topsoil can be beneficial.
Firm & Rake
Firm the surface by treading evenly or tamping with the back of a rake. Repeat until the entire site is well firmed. Rake the soil to a fine tilth and leave it to allow any weeds to germinate. When they appear, apply a contact weed killer, and after 2–3 days rake off the weeds. Apply a base dressing of compound granular organic fertiliser and lightly rake it in. Leave for a few days before seeding.
Sow the Seed
Select a grass seed to suit your lifestyle — ornamental or practical. Calculate the amount needed using the supplier's recommended sowing rate. Generally 50g/m² produces excellent results; 35g/m² may be applied where conditions are perfect. Shake the container to mix seeds thoroughly before sowing. Scatter evenly moving left to right, top to bottom. If using a machine, sow half in one direction and the other half at right angles.
Rake & Water
Lightly rake the seeded area to partially cover the seed (to a depth of 0.5cm is fine). Most seed left on top will still germinate. Water with a fine-rose watering can or sprinkler to keep the seeds moist. New seedlings will appear over the next 7–21 days depending on the weather.
Protect & Mow
Protect seeds from birds dust-bathing — stretch string across the area tied with lengths of silver foil. When grass reaches about 8cm (3") high, take off about 1.5cm (½"). On subsequent cuts, gradually lower the blades, but don't go lower than an inch.
50g seed per m²
Keep moist 7–21 days
Cover seed 0.5cm
First mow at 8cm