WHAT TO EXPECT FROM NEWLY PLANTED GRASS SEED – Appropriate timing permits all types of grass seedlings to develop strong roots and become established prior to the onset of natural stresses. Depending on the grass type, the growing region, and the climatic conditions of a given year, the appearance of your lawn will vary.
Grass types and varieties have varying germination rates by nature. For instance, cool-season Kentucky bluegrass can take two to three times longer to germinate than tall fescue varieties. Likewise, warm-season Zoysia grass may require two to three times as much time as Bermudagrass. In addition, many seed products contain a mixture of seeds with varying germination rates.
When grown in ideal conditions, grass seedlings typically emerge within seven to twenty-one days, regardless of whether you are repairing bare spots, overseeding an existing lawn, or starting from scratch. The grass may require an additional three to four weeks of growth before it can be mowed.
- For fall-planted seed, this may necessitate delaying the first mowing until spring.
- Certain grasses, such as Zoysia grass, may require several months of growth to establish themselves.
- The majority of grass seedlings’ initial growth occurs underground, where it cannot be observed.
- New roots establish grass firmly, prepare it for the upcoming seasons, and position it for robust, rapid growth when their peak season arrives.
Grass seedlings can effectively compete for light, water, and nutrients, as well as repel lawn diseases and pests, including weeds, if they are planted at the correct time. Plan your planting so that new seedlings are well-established prior to seasons of stress.
How can I accelerate the germination of grass seed?
Use the following “mist – lightly water – deeply water” process: After seeding and fertilizing, the top inch of soil should be kept moist until the seeds begin to germinate (aka sprout). This entails misting the area once a day, or twice if the weather is unusually hot, but without allowing it to become saturated.
Can grass seed receive too much water?
Hash-mark Can Grass Seeds Be Over-Wet? – Yes, it is possible to overwater grass seed. Too much water can drown or wash away seedlings before they germinate. Too much water can also shift the soil and bury the seeds, preventing them from receiving sunlight and nutrients.
- So, while you should not be stingy with the amount of water you apply, you also should not be excessive.
- If puddles begin to form or the soil becomes soggy and waterlogged, you may be overwatering your lawn.
- The soils should ideally be moist and soft, but not actively wet.
- If your soil is too wet, fungi may flourish, destroying your grass seed and lawn.
Fungus problems can become severe enough to require professional treatment. Depending on the type of grass and soil conditions, grass seed typically matures in two to three weeks. Once the grass reaches a height of 3 to 4 inches, you can stop watering it daily and mow it for the first time.
