If you’re thinking about laying turf, consider a more economical route: seeded grass.
That is, planting your grass from seed. Yes, it might take longer, but growing grass from seed offers considerable benefits.
Benefits of seeded grass
- Cost-effective: Seeding grass is often more economical compared to other methods of establishing a lawn, such as turf.
- Variety: Seeding allows you to choose from various grass seeds to suit your needs, such as climate, soil type, and appearance. You can also mix seeds to create a more pest-resilient lawn.
- Root development: Seeded grass typically develops more robust root systems as the roots grow directly into the soil from the seedling stage.
When is the best time to plant grass seeds?
While spring is the best time to plant grass seeds, you can sow seeds until the beginning of April. Otherwise, it’s best to wait until spring.
How long do grass seeds take to grow
The time it takes for grass seeds to grow depends on various factors, including the type of grass, environmental conditions, soil quality, and maintenance. Grass seeds typically germinate within 5 to 30 days after planting, but the grass may take several weeks to establish a mature, fully covered lawn. In saying that, your lawn should be established within 12 weeks.
What is the best grass seed?
The best grass seed for your lawn in Australia depends on the climate. There are two types of grass: warm-season and cool-season. Many Aussie homeowners opt for warm-season grasses to survive a hot summer. However, depending on where you live, they can suffer in winter.
Lawn seeds are available in most lawn varieties except buffalo grass. Another option is a blend of cool- and warm-season grasses, letting you reap the benefits of both.
Here are some grass species commonly used in Australian lawns:
- Couch Grass (Cynodon dactylon): A warm-season grass that thrives in hot, sunny climates. Couch grass is known for its durability and fast growth. It forms a dense, low-growing turf and suits high-traffic areas.
- Kikuyu Grass (Pennisetum clandestinum): Another warm-season grass, Kikuyu grass is known for its rapid growth and aggressive spreading. It tolerates heat and drought and wears well, making it suitable for lawns, sports fields, and erosion control.
- Buffalo Grass (Stenotaphrum secundatum): A warm-season grass with good shade tolerance and low water requirements. It forms a dense, coarse-textured turf and is well-adapted to Australia’s harsh climate conditions.
- Zoysia Grass (Zoysia spp.): A warm-season grass known for dense, carpet-like growth and tolerance to heat, drought, and foot traffic. It has a fine texture and excellent wear resistance, making it suitable for residential lawns.
How to plant lawn grass seeds
Step 1: Prepare the soil
Prepare the planting area by clearing existing grass, weeds, rocks, and debris, loosening the soil to a depth of 10-15 centimetres using a shovel or garden tiller, breaking up clumps, removing large stones, and amending the soil with organic matter like compost to enhance fertility and drainage as needed.
Step 2: Level the ground
Rake the soil to create a smooth, level surface for planting. Remove any excess debris and large clumps.
Step 3: Sow the seeds
Use a broadcast or hand spreader to sprinkle your seeds over the surface.
Step 4: Water thoroughly
After planting, water the seeded area thoroughly to moisten the soil to a depth of about 2.5 centimetres and maintain consistent soil moisture without waterlogging during the germination period, which typically lasts 7-21 days (about three weeks), depending on the grass species.
Step 5: Care and maintenance
Keep the soil moist by watering lightly several times daily, especially in hot, dry conditions, until the grass seeds have germinated and established. Mow the top 2 cm of grass once it reaches 5- 6 cm.
Fertilise the lawn according to the recommended schedule for your grass type and local climate.
You might also like:
How to get the perfect lawn all year around
The complete guide to lawn alternatives
How to care for your lawn in winter
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