Best practices for new grass seed germination

Encouraging the growth of your new grass can be a labor of love. With these tips, you'll be on your way to a lawn of full turf in no time.

New grass seed should be watered immediately after installation, even if upcoming rain is predicted that day or in the near future. This step is important as it will assist in "setting" the grass seed and straw or matting that has been installed, helping to prevent washout.

For future care, keeping the top inch of soil consistently moist (but not soggy) is important during the establishment process. Daily watering is key for the first 2-3 weeks — up to 3x/day if it is particularly hot or dry out. It's important not to let the seed dry out, as this inhibits the germination process.

After growth has reached a mowing height (around 3"), reduce watering to just a few times per week, ensuring the soil is soaked more deeply (6-8") to encourage the roots to continue establishing deep into the soil. Straw and erosion control matting will break down over time. Prematurely removing may result in bald spots or other damage.

At South Central Landscapes, we use Sunny Turf Mix seed blend from Deer Creek Seed Co., a premium product consisting of three Kentucky Bluegrasses (50%), two Perennial Ryegrasses (25%) and Creeping Red Fescue (25%). (Specific composition ratios are subject to change yearly based on manufacturers seasonal availability.) We offer temporary watering systems as a worry-free option to compliment new lawn installations.