Step 5: Sow the seed

The best time for seeding a new lawn is in the fall. Warm soils, cooler temperatures and autumn rains create ideal conditions for seed germination and growth. There is also less competition from weeds in fall than in early spring.

A lawn can be started in the spring and summer if adequate water is available. But unless preventative steps are taken, it may become infested with annual weeds. Talk with your Southern States lawn expert about precautions to take if you must plant before fall.

To get uniform coverage, divide the seed mixture in half. Sow half the seed in 1 direction and the other half at right angles to the first. A seed spreader is the best tool for even seed distribution. See the drawing above for the proper spread pattern. Hand-seeding is possible if done carefully and if the area is small. After sowing the seed, lightly rake the area to cover the seed no greater than 1/4 inch deep. Seed won’t germinate if covered too deeply.

On to Step 6: Apply Fertilizer

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