How to sow a lawn from seed

in Home : Projects: Lawn care

You will need

Grass seed
Canes
Plastic cup
Rake

Do it: April - May, September

At its best: June - August

Takes just: 1 weekend

Project categories

Overview

Aside from being less expensive than laying turf, sowing a lawn allows you to choose a seed mixture most appropriate for your site and needs; whether you want a bowling green or a hard-wearing football pitch. Grass seeds sown in autumn, while the ground is warm and moist, will germinate in a couple of weeks and will have a headstart over seeds sown in the colder spring.

How to do it

1Sow grass seed at the rate of one-and-a half ounces per square metre. Weigh out the first amount, put it in a plastic cup and mark the side to use as a measure. Using canes, mark out your site into 1m squares and scatter one cup of seed evenly into each.

2Rake the seed in after sowing and lay a few twiggy sticks on the surface to discourage birds and cats. Once the grass starts to grow it can be given its first cut when it reaches 4cm high.

Adam's tip

Prepare the ground thoroughly before sowing and try to avoid exposing the lawn to too much wear and tear during the first season.

Discuss this project

Talkback: How to sow a lawn from seed

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dillonstar 24/11/2011 at 15:28

I have an area currently covered in flagstones that I'd like to seed with grass. In the guide here it says 'Prepare the ground thoroughly prior to seeding', but does not explain how best to do this from scratch (drainage etc, soil type). Being a complete novice, I'm really not sure where to start prior to seeding.

Geoffreyj 24/11/2011 at 15:28

yes gave me basic info as needed as I have completed horticulture lessons at college but as pointed out by others does not really go in-depth enough or refer to related topics ie aspect ph detailed prep prior to seeding