From The Bedford Extension MG Help Desk

QUESTION

The client needs to seed a large lawn area (about 5 acres) and was looking for information to help do so.

DIAGNOSIS / RECOMMENDATION

It was recommended that the client get a soil test first to determine the appropriate fertilization. He was sent information on establishing a lawn (VT Publication 426-718).

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

Fall (September, October, and November) are the best times for many lawn care activities, particularly for fertilization of cool-season grasses and for putting in sod or seeding of new lawns (1). Always, the first step is to get a good soil sample and to take several if the area is big enough for varied conditions (2, 3), and then fertilize in accordance with the recommendations (6) Since growing conditions are ideal at this time of year, grasses respond quickly to soil-test recommended applications of fertilizer and lime. (1) It’s also important to select turfgrass varieties that are adapted. (3, 4) Alternative recommendations are available for warm-season varieties. (1)

SOURCE: University of Maryland Extension

In order to flourish, turfgrass requires a soil depth of six to eight inches for good root growth, a soil pH of approximately 6.2, about an inch of water weekly and adequate sunshine. If the yard doesn’t meet these criteria, consider an alternative groundcover (3). If there is a steep slope, an alternative to turfgrass should be considered as well. Mowing on a steep slope can be dangerous, but it also may be difficult to get grass established and avoid erosion.

Knowing when to carry out lawn care activities is important (5); the Fall is a good time to get the lawn in good shape for the winter and next year. And it is important to follow recommendations on mowing height, watering and fertilization in order to keep the lawn growing well and minimizing weed concerns. (1, 3, 5, 6)

RESOURCE LINKS

By: Betsy Brown, Bedford Extension Master Gardener Volunteer; Help Desk Coordinator