If you’re a Florida homeowner, chances are the arrival of spring means it’s time to start thinking about tending to your lawn. Whether you’re looking to fill in bare patches or just give your yard a boost with some fresh grass, seeding is a great way to ensure a lush, healthy lawn. Below are some simple steps that will help you get started.
Buy the Right Seeds
It’s important to purchase the right type of seed for the climate of your region. Different types of grass do better in different climates, so make sure you research what kind of grass grows best in your area and purchase accordingly. The type of grass you choose will also depend on how much maintenance you’re willing to commit to each week; some varieties require more upkeep than others. Once you have decided which type of grass is best for your lawn, buy enough seed for the size of your yard—a coverage rate of 2-4 pounds per 100 square feet should be sufficient.
Prepare the Soil
The next step is prepping the soil before planting—this is one of the most important steps in getting healthy, lush grass. Start by removing any debris from the area and make sure it is free from weeds and other plants that could interfere with germination. Rake up any dead grass and loosen up the top layer of soil with a garden fork or tiller. Aerating helps as well; this process involves poking small holes into the ground every few inches to allow air and water into the soil—you can rent an aerator at your local hardware store if needed. After aerating, spread a thin layer (about 1/2 inch) over the entire area and rake it in evenly so that all areas are covered but not over-packed down. Make sure there are no clumps or chunks left behind after raking; these could prevent water from reaching all parts of your lawn during irrigation sessions later on.
Seeding Day
Now comes the fun part: seeding! Spread out half of your seed by hand or using a broadcast spreader in one direction, then go back over it in another direction using the remaining seeds (this ensures even coverage). After spreading out your seeds, lightly rake them into the soil so they have something to hold onto while germinating—just make sure not to bury them too deep or they won’t be able to come up through the surface. When finished, give them one final sprinkling with water—just enough so that they are damp but not completely saturated—and let nature take its course!
With these simple steps as a guide, seeding up your Florida lawn this spring should be relatively stress-free. Make sure you start off on good footing by finding out which type of seed works best for your region and preparing your soil properly before planting day arrives. Feeling overwhelmed? Taking proper care of your lawn can be time-consuming but the local professionals at Skinner Lawns are here to help! For more information call 904-720-2515.