Hydroseeding Question

[lukemelo216]

So I called my local JDL today to request some information on hydroseeding products. When I asked about what type of starter fertilizer would be good in a mix, he said that I shouldnt add starter fertilizer to the mix, I should wait until the seeds start to germinate, then apply a 18-24-12 fertilizer. Just would like some opinions on this situation. If it should be put in the mix, is it alright to still use a granule mix or no?

Also just wondering if anyone has had experience with JDL hydroseed products. He gave me information on EZ Jet Spray Mulch with Tack and Hydroseed grass mix. How well do these products work for anyone that has had experience with them.

[BSDeality]

I typically keep my fert separate from the mix because its hard on the pump. We either spread it before or we wait a few days then put it down before germination.

[hotshot4819]

what type of machine do you have?

[Turboguy]

I think Hotshot asked the question that would help us the most to give you good answers.

I have hydroseeded as much as 2 million sq. ft. a year for longer than some of the posters on L.S. have been alive. I always add fertilizer in my mix. Perhaps if your unit has a gear pump it might be a little cause for concern but even if you do I don't think it would be a problem. You can always use a water soluable fertizler if you are concerned about pump wear. I have used a water soluable fertilzer for the past 7 or 8 years, not because I was worried about pump wear, but because it seems to get my grass up faster. I would go with a high phosphrus starter fertilizer. If your unit has a centrifugal pump you don't need to worry about pump wear for sure.

As far as Jet Spray it is a good product. The negatives on it are that it is a little more expensive and although it is faster to load you need to let it mix longer. It doesn't absorb water as fast as paper mulch does. (paper is close to instant, jet spray should mix 15-20 minutes. The other negative is you need to use a little more to get the same coverage but you can put more in your tank than other mulches.

JDL can sometimes be a little pricy with thier hydroseeding supplies. It might be worth calling Phonix Paper at (877) 889-2014 and asking if they have a dealer near you. They are based in Lostant IL which shouldn't be all that far from you so I think there is a good chance there would be someone close to you. They have both paper mulch and a product like Jet Spray and both are excellent. If you do call and happen to talk to Sam, the owner, tell him I said hello. You might also call Profile and ask if they have any other dealers in your area. It never hurts to price shop.

[EA Quinn]

We run granular 19-19-19 or even a 20-10-10 polyon mix when we shoot. We do a follow up of 2-3 applicaitons of fertilizer every two weeks after the lawn has been installed. This ensures great results. We have a T330 Finn machine and run 100% wood fiber through our machine.