How to Plant Grass

How to Plant Grass

It is fall here in Ohio.  This is the ideal time to plant grass.  This year we had a historic drought in parts of Southwest Ohio.  Some lawns are bouncing back just fine and others need a little extra attention.  We recommend planting grass in Early Fall.  Planting grass is not hard, but don’t just go toss grass seed down on your hard clay soil.  That won’t work!  Below is a simple way to plant grass in spots.

  1. Take a bag(s) of topsoil and spread it thinly in bare and stressed spots.
  2. Spread turf type tall fescue grass seed evenly over the areas
  3. Use a metal rake or garden weasel to work the topsoil and grass seed into the existing soil

The key to good germination is soil to seed contact.  You can also use a slice seeding machine or aerator to accomplish this.

Wait!!!  Don’t forget to water!  You must nurture the young plants in the early stages of growth just like you would your vegetables.  Depending on the weather, you should water daily, 2-3 times per day for 10-15 minutes.  This can change if it rains or is overcast and cooler out.  You may not need to water at all that day if that is the case.  Water for 2-3 weeks.  Do NOT over water.  Yes, this is possible to give the new grass seed too much water.  You don’t want puddling or run off.

Should I water my grass seed that day or not? 

If the soil is tan, then you should water.

If the soil is brown, you can skip watering.

Here is a video of my 8 year-old planting grass.  It is so easy even an eight year old can do it…Possibly even a caveman too.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A6-tkGyP_CI