we live in illinois, so its not like its hard to grow anything. we dug out our whole backyard and rototilled (i think that's spelled wrong) it. we're not sure if its better to use straw or hay or what??
2007-06-21 01:05:22 · 6 answers · asked by Anonymous in Home & Garden ➔ Do It Yourself (DIY)
A soil sample will help if you have trouble growing certain varieties in your area. You likely have a agricultural extension in your region (typically associated with a university) that will analyze your soil for little cost. A google search should get you there.
I've done two large sections of yard using a tiller and the results were excellent.
Consider using treated "Pennington" grass seed. This seed has a coating that encourages growth and inhibits bird consumption. I now see at Costco, Walmart and Home Depot.
You can either spread the seed by throwing it on an angle or by using a drop or broadcast spreader.
Rake the seed into the newly grated soil and use a roller to set into the soil.
Then lay a moderate layer of sanitized/bleached straw (No hay!). Hay has seed that can germinate and is generally messier. The moderate layer of straw will shield the seed from heavy rain, provide the ideal environment for germination by retaining moisture and preventing direct sunlight damage. The straw will also inhibit bird damage.
It's important to water 2 -3 times a day until seedlings appear.
When the grass has developed a decent root structure rake the excess straw and compost.
FWIW, read the seed package carefully and look for weed seed content.
2007-06-21 02:40:36 · answer #1 · answered by mrNetVestor 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
the straw also helps to shade the seeds from the sun, and also helps to retain moisture. hay is for animal feed and is more difficult to distribute on your lawn.
2007-06-21 04:18:14 · answer #2 · answered by OC 1 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Slit seeding, which is what you did, is great. Builders use straw after seeding....it keeps the birds away from the seed. Just water like crazy....mornings.
2007-06-21 01:22:08 · answer #3 · answered by dawnb 7 · 1⤊ 0⤋
Fap on your lawn.
Fap on your hay.
Hell, even fap on your straw.
Spreading your seed is vital to ensure the survival of the human race.
2007-06-21 01:11:53 · answer #4 · answered by RevPeter3rd 4 · 0⤊ 1⤋
Erm, you use SEEDS so seed your lawn. What would you be doing with hay!?!?!?!?
2007-06-21 01:09:48 · answer #5 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 1⤋
Everything you need to know is on this site. . .
http://www.seedsuperstore.com/ask_the_expert/planting.asp
2007-06-21 01:41:00 · answer #6 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋