reseeding - Knowledgebase Question - Garden.org

Fredericksburg, VA (Zone 7A)

Question by cff65
November 13, 2006

We tiled and reseeded our lawn two weeks ago, but due to weather and work, I was not able to lay over a layer of mulch or top soil over it. I have been watering it, except when it rains, and the day after, so do you think that it is too late to still mulch, and then spread the fertilizer? Thanks cff65@yahoo.com

Answer from NGA
November 13, 2006

0	You would not want to put topsoil and mulch over top of the seed, that would put the seed too deep and smother it. (Usually, the seed is spread on top of the soil surface and then lightly rolled to assure good soil to seed contact.) It is already really too late to be seeding (it would have been better in early September) so your seed may not germinate well this fall as it is since the weather is turning cold. Some may germinate now, but I would expect you will need to overseed again in the spring. The mulch (such as a light straw layer) would have helped to keep the soil evenly moist while the seed was germinating; if the soil dries out during the process, the seed will die. There is not much point to adding that once the seed has begun to grow. Since it is so late, I would hold off on fertilizing as well. Your local county extension should be able to advise you on any needed fertilizer and other soil amendments based on soil test results. Good luck with your lawn.

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