Above and Beyond Hydroseed

Watering

It is important to keep your newly hydroseeded lawn or sod watered. An important factor in the process of hydroseeding is seed germination. For this process to occur, moisture is essential for the germination process. The top 1-2" of your soil must remain moist, but not wet. To achieve this effect it is suggested that you lightly water your area several times a day (see watering schedule below). You do not want to over-water, where it could pond or have water running off the newly seeded area. Lack of watering can cause the seed to dry out and expire. Watering is equally as important if you have a wildflower application. Keep the area moist daily until there is significant growth. Once that has occurred you can cut back on the amount of watering.

Watering Schedule

Weeks 1-6: 2-3 light waterings per day (depending on the weather). Keep soil damp.

Weeks 7-10: One heavy watering per day.

Weeks 10+: One watering per week or as needed, depending on temperatures (1" of water per week is usually adequate).

Fertilizing

The vegetation will utilize fertilizer applied at the time of installation in the first 4-5 weeks. After the 4-5 week time period you will need to fertilize again. You should check with your local nursery for fertilizing information, or you are welcome to call our office to purchase fertilizer.

Mowing

Once your grass is 2 - 2 1/2 inches high, it is time for its first mowing. It is important to ensure your mower blades are sharp. Dull blades can tear the new blades of grass. This can cause stress or disease resulting in death to the new vegetation. When mowing, make sure to never take more than 1/4" off the new blades of grass. Do not collect the clippings on the first mowing, allow them to biodegrade within the new turf. This aids in nourishing the soil and vegetation while accelerating plant development. Change the direction you mow your lawn. For instance, if you mow from left to right the first mowing, mow from top to bottom the next time. Do not mow your grass or leave the clippings down if the turf is wet.

REMEMBER!

Once the soil is bare, fertilized, properly watered and warmed by the sun, you must be watchful for the appearance of weeds. If you spot weed growth it is very important to remove them quickly or they will compete with your grass seed for water and nutrients.

Your new lawn is still young. Just because your lawn looks fully established, does not mean you can stop watering or change your mowing practices! It takes many months before your lawn is ready for the stress of hot summers and cold winters. Choosing the right fertilizers, changing the direction you mow and keeping weed growth under control should guarantee a healthy and beautiful lawn. The same watering, fertilizing and mowing practices should be followed both for hydroseed and sod.