Question about Winter Rye in Texas

[soccer911]

The question I have is.....Do you have to scalp the yard or can you do a lower setting and mow. Then put out winter rye and starter fertilizer?

[hoskm01]

Setting the mower lower (depending on how much lower) is scalping. There are different ways of doing it, depends on your grass condition. We Scalp here, 2-3 cuts usually, gradually getting lower down to the lowest mower setting. Cuts out the thatch, shocks the bermuda into dormancy, and gets your rye seed down to the soil. Prepare to haul some grass though, lots of it.

[PurpHaze]

Prepare to haul some grass though, lots of it.

As in "hay?" :D

[PurpHaze]

Most of the guys here will scalp (lower mower setting a couple of times depending on thickness) then throw a mix of amendment/fertilizer and seed onto the areas. Rye will germinate fairly quickly.

[SWD]

There are so many variables associated with the site conditions, more info is needed from you. You can PM me if you wish or call me on my cell at 830-305-0339.
Steve