when to mow after reseeding

[timn99]

Hello,

In in VA and came across this site as I am in the midst of a project to improve the look of my lawn. I laid down about an inch of Scott's Lawnsoil and broadcasted Black Beauty TTTF, and have been watering every single day. The seeds have have started to germinate. When can I tell that I am able to mow the new grass, and at what height should I mow to? Also, I now realize that it would have been much better to aerate b4 the reseeding, but now its too late. When can I aerate, as the new seeds have already started germination? Should I wait till the spring or can I still aerate this year?

 

[nobagger]

I would wait to aerate. But as far as mowing I usually let new grass get about 4-5" before I would mow and I would only take 1/4-1/2" off of the grass blades and each week gradually bringing it down to the desired height. You don't want to be chopping off 3 inches at a time.

 

[timn99]

nobagger......thanks for the response. I will follow your suggestion on the mowing.

Another question.....as I'm in VA, which I believe is a transition zone and the soil has lots of red clay in my area, does this mean that most likely the pH is too high (acidic?) and needs to be lowered? Do I need to apply lime or something else. If so, where can I buy lime, and also where can I take my soil sample to, to have it analyzed? Sorry for all the questions as I'm a newbie, but can learn very quick. Thanks in advance.