Grass seed is a simple and cost-effective solution to creating a new lawn. Get it right and your lawn will look thicker and lusher in no time at all.
Gro-Sure has a wide range of lawn seed, Smart Seed and standard seed, for all your lawn’s needs, including for shady conditions, hard-wearing, fine lawns or fast-establishing. Plus, our seeds have a bird deterrent coating to maximise your success.
Depending on weather conditions, sow in the spring from April to May, or in early autumn, from mid-September to mid-October.
Sowing Seed in spring
Ideally sow when the soil temperature is 10-18°C but with specialist lawn seeds soil temperature can start at 7°C. If it is too cold the seed will remain dormant until warmer weather. Overseeding lawns is vital to help thicken and reduce competition from weeds and moss.
Sowing Seed in summer
Sowing seed in summer will require frequent watering to ensure the seed can establish. Water both in the morning and evening as it is cooler, so the water is absorbed rather than evaporated.
Sowing Seed in autumn
Autumn is the best time for sowing seed, as the soil is still warm from the summer, there is less competition from weeds and there is usually plenty of rain.
Below is a step by step guide, or alternatively, watch our video guide.
Step one
Clear the area
- Good soil preparation is key for establishing a new lawn.
- Prepare the soil by clearing away any weeds and existing plants to reveal bare soil. A great tool is the Kent & Stowe Oscillating Hoe which is perfect for weeding in soil with its double edge blade.
- If using a weedkiller, such as Resolva, read the manufacturer’s instructions to know how much time you need to wait before sowing your new lawn.
Step two
Prepare the ground
- Dig over the soil, breaking down any lumps and removing stones and roots.
- To get a firm surface, walk over the ground to tread it down. You can also use a roller for larger areas to save time.
- Getting the level right is critical. To do this, rake the area in different directions, making sure you cover the whole area.
- After levelling the ground, add a layer of 3-4cm of Gro-Sure Lawn Seeding Soil which gives seeds the right conditions for germination. Level again with the rake to produce a fine crumble texture.
- Divide large areas into smaller square metre sections with a cane if you want to be more accurate.
Step three
Sowing your lawn seed
- Now the area is ready to sow.
- First, shake the lawn seed box to mix up the contents.
- Sprinkle the lawn seed in 2 passes at right angles to each other, to help the seed spread more uniformly. Check the packaging instructions for the recommended rate of application.
- Once this process is finished, lightly rake the surface to incorporate the seed into the soil.
- Finally, press the seed into the soil by walking over the entire area. You can use a light roller for larger areas.
- Water thoroughly to start the seed germinating. Use a fine-spray watering can or sprinkler, taking care not to wash the seeds away to create puddles.
Step four
Looking after your new lawn
- Water daily until established, usually this takes between 1-2 weeks. A sprinkler is a great way to easily water large grass areas evenly.
- In very hot conditions, water late in the day once the sun has gone down.
- Mow for the first time with the highest setting when the grass is 5-8cm long. Make sure the grass is dry.
