[Enviro Green]

Just a couple of questions on over seeding:

1. What type of mowing schedule do you recommend? Mow just before seeding, just after, and then how long after over seeding until next mowing, or do you just over seed and continue on the normal schedule?

2. How many folks use a starter fert when they over seed? Something like a 12-24-12 at .75 to 1.0 pounds of phosphorous per 1000 at time of seeding?

Thanks!

EG

 

[lordohturf]

Mowing before or after seeding is not much of an issue, as long as you are not bagging the grass. It will probably take over a week for the seed to germinate, unless using ryegrass.

MORE IMPORTANT!

MAKE SURE THE SEED IS IN CONTACT WITH THE SOIL AND THE SOIL HAS BEEN DISTURBED BY RAKING, AERATING OR SLICING AT LEAST 3/8 IN. DEEP. IF AERATING, GO OVER THE LAWN AT LEAST TWICE AND PREFERABLY THREE OR FOUR TIMES. IF SLICE SEEDING, MOW YARD SHORT BEFORE SEEDING TO AVOID THE MESS OF TEARING UP LONG GRASS CLUMPS.

DON'T FORGET TO WATER!

iF YOU ARE JUST SEEDING OVER EXISTING TURF WITH NO SOIL PREPARATION, YOU CAN EXPECT NO MORE THAN 2% GERMINATION.

 

[lordohturf]

For starter fertilizers, use a 1-2-1 or 1-2-2 analysis or something
similar. A slow release form of nitrogen will give longer lasting feeding while you are just establishing new grass.

Something like an 18-24-12 or 10-20-20 or as you stated a 12-24-12 would be ok and you are correct about .75 to 1 lb. p per 1000 sq. ft.