The first thing I would do, is use a cultivar that you know is going to be useful. Is there irrigation? Probably not, or it would've been mentioned. What's in there now? Weak Grass? Weeds? Dirt?
Anyway, what I would HIGHLY recommend, if there is no irrigation, is turf type tall fescue. This stuff can't be beat for drought tolerance, because it grows such a deep root system. Now, don't confuse this with the junk tall fescues, such as Kentucky 31 mix. This has to be a TURF TYPE. Anyway, this by far is your best bet, and if you find a blend, such as Lesco's Teammates Plus, you are even better of, because it has a small bluegrass % (about 10) in it. The reason I ask if there is weeds and such in it, is because if there isn't too many, I would just recommend slit seeding it. Much easier, less work, and generally a better success rate on your germination. If your grade is already ok, well, you're all set. If not, then you will want to till it, rake it out - ensuring that it is level, put your seed in, rake it in, apply starter fert. RIGHT AWAY, and water, water, water. With the TTTF, you want to use 8-10# per M, so count on 10# for your area. And like I said,... DEFinitely use starter fert. right away, something like 18-24-12. Then, hit it again in 2 weeks. As long as your friend keeps it damp, it'll grow. The only thing is, is what have your temps been like over there? Here, it's still too cold. We've had temps in the 50's and 60's, but the soil temps are just not warm enough. Oh, another thing with TTTF, is that the germination temps are 5-10 degrees higher than most other cool season cultivars. Generally, everyone will have mowed their lawns about 3 times as you are seeing grass start to come in, when it's done at this time. Good luck with it!
