Grass - Knowledgebase Question

Shrubs
De Pere, Wi
Question by aprilw
June 7, 2007
We just bought a brand new house in De Pere, WI. We have no lawn yet, but the weeds are growing like crazy. We heard it's best to plant grass in the fall, so we wanted to wait. How can we stop the weeds until then and also get the ground in condition for grass this fall?


Image
Answer from NGA
June 7, 2007

0

 If you can keep the existing weeds from going to seed, the lawn you plant will have fewer weed problems. Depending upon the size of the area, you may be able to hoe them down or mow them down before they go to seed. Or, you can try spot treating with a weed killer. Spring and fall are the recommended times for seeding a new lawn because the air temperatures are cooler and rainfall abundant, which makes for healthy new grass. However, if you are dilligent, you can plant your grass now and not have to spend the summer battling weeds. Start by digging out the weeds, or by rototilling the area and raking out all the weeds and other debris (stones, sticks, etc.) Then spread a 4-5" layer of organic matter over the top of the lawn area (to help improve the soil) and till it in. Then rake to level the area (a slight grade away from buildings will help with drainage). Broadcast your seed, then top with a thin layer of peat moss. This will disguise the seeds so the area won't be raided by birds, and it will help keep the seedbed moist. Water several times a day to keep the seedbed moist and you should see grass appear in 7-10 days. As long as you keep the area well watered, the grass should grow well for you, even in early June.

Best wishes with your new lawn!

You must be signed in before you can post questions or answers. Click here to join!

« Return to the Garden Knowledgebase Homepage

Member Login:

[ Join now ]

Garden.org Homepage
Help using the site
About
Contact
Terms of Service
Privacy
Memberlist
Acorns
Links
Ask a Question
Getting Started Gardening
Newsletter
NGA Merch

© 1972 - 2021 National Gardening Association

Times are presented in US Central Standard Time

Pinterest
Facebook
Youtube
Twitter
Instagram

Today's site banner is by lauriemorningglory and is called "A Tulip with Flair!"

This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.