Watering Tips for Successful Seeding

The following are the steps you should take for watering your newly seeded lawn:

In general, the “by the book” experts say that as soon as the lawn has been seeded; begin watering the whole lawn lightly twice a day (in the absence of rain) until the seed begins to germinate.  Never let the seedbed dry out!  Once the seed has germinated water 2 to 3 times a week.  Resume deep, weekly watering after the grass has been mowed twice and until temperatures cool.  Every yard has different spots that require different amounts of watering. 

Areas that need more watering (everyday plus water heavily on the weekends):  Bare areas, especially by the street, Southern exposures, sloped (due to runoff), and any other “hot” areas.   

Areas that need less watering (every other day plus heavy on the weekends):  Shady areas and areas with some grass coverage already (the existing grass will conserve moisture).

Once the lawn comes up and has grown 1 ½ to 2 inches, you should water occasionally if there is little or no rainfall.  Many newly seeded lawns have died because watering was stopped once the grass came up. 

Thickness or thinness of spots:  Lawns are a collection of different microenvironments.  A steep slope and a flat area will look different.  Only uniform terrain and conditions will support uniform stands of grass.

Leaves:  Keeping the leaves off of the new grass is important.  Heavy raking will pull out new grass.  Be careful when raking, mowing or using blowers to get rid of leaves.

Mowing:  Please do not mow for at least 3 to 4 weeks in order for seed to germinate and seedlings to take root.  Keep your lawn mower set at a 3.5” cut.  Keep your blades sharp.  Make sure it isn’t too wet.

Our guarantee:  I guarantee 70% germination if you water.  I guarantee nothing if you do not water!  If you water and do not receive 70% germination we will be happy to reseed these areas anytime this fall.  I cannot reseed in the spring because the seed will germinate but will not survive.  I will not reseed any lawn that I have not received payment for from my initial seeding.  Remember, I guarantee my seeding, please guarantee your payment.

Due to the immaturity of the lawn, I cannot do weed control in the fall on newly seeded lawns.

Please call anytime if you have questions.

HLD Landscaping, Inc.

P.O. Box 1401

Virginia Beach, Virginia 23451

757-425-3272