Sunday, January 27, 2008

Seeding and Aeration, by Turf Touch(r)--864.325.9939

Seeding and aeration, in Upstate South Carolina, means core(the best method, in my opinion), followed by applying fescue seed(there are many species).

First, core aeration is usually done with a walk-behind machine that rotates, pulling plugs from the soil that resemble dog turds(if you will). After core aerating, your lawn will be covered with plugs. Leave them alone; allow the water to dissolve them.

Immediately after aerating, apply your fescue grass seed--evenly and in the right quantity. The best fescues are usually Oregon grown species that grow to the height of 3-4''.

Should I apply hay after seeding? Hay is used to hold the moisture to the ground; hence, it will help with germination, yet you will usually not need hay if you water properly--twice daily for three to four weeks.

When you water fescue; hay will, unfortunately, germinate too. The hay will produce a lime green color different than your fescue which will be a darker green color. The May heat will burn most hay off, yet it's easier if you abstain from applying hay. However, there are circumstances where hay can help, especially when you have a yard that is merely dirt.

What's the best time to seed? THE FALL, around Labor Day through October.

If, however, you failed to seed in the fall, you can seed around late January through February. This will give seed enough time to germinate before hot weather can kill new seedlings.

This is a no-brainer, yet it must be stated, for it's the reason most fesuce lawns fail--lack of water. Water lawn one hour a day for three to four weeks subsequent to seeding. And, yes, a sprinkler system is a great investment, as it will save you time and money and assure you that your lawn will be watered, even after you are tired of the word, WORK.

Please call us if we can be of any assistance with any of these services.

TurfTouch
864.325.9939
Greenville, SC

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