Lawn Advice - Ask Extension
Last year a grub infestation killed most of my lawn and it is mostly weeds and bare spots now. Do you have a step by step guide that can tell me ho...
Knowledgebase
Lawn Advice #869093
Asked May 19, 2024, 11:48 AM EDT
Last year a grub infestation killed most of my lawn and it is mostly weeds and bare spots now. Do you have a step by step guide that can tell me how to bring it back and is it too late in the year to start this project?
Marquette County Michigan
Expert Response
Hello,
Establishing a lawn by seed in Michigan involves several key steps to ensure successful growth. Here’s a summary of the process based on the MSU Extension guidelines:
Timing: The best time to seed your lawn in Michigan is August 15 to September 15. The warm days and cool nights are ideal for seed germination and seedling growth. Late spring or early summer is the second-best time, but seeding should not be done later than June 15.
Site Preparation:
Measure the area to be planted.
Conduct a soil test to determine nutrient needs. Details on soil testing at this link: https://homesoiltest.msu.edu/
Remove large rocks and debris.
Incorporate organic matter to improve soil structure.
Add fertilizer and lime as indicated by the soil test results.
Seeding:
Rake the surface to create a fine seedbed.
Select the appropriate turfgrass species for your conditions.
Evenly distribute the seed over the prepared area.
Rake and roll the seeded surface to ensure good seed-to-soil contact.
Post-Seeding Care:
Apply a thin layer of mulch, like straw, to conserve moisture.
Irrigate the newly seeded area frequently to moisten the topsoil without creating puddles.
Mow the area once the grass reaches an appropriate height.
Apply weed control, if necessary, after the grass is established.
Remember, the success of your new lawn depends on careful preparation, choosing the right seed varieties, and following these steps diligently. For more detailed information, you can refer to the MSU Extension’s guide on establishing a new lawn using seed at this link:
https://www.canr.msu.edu/resources/establishing_a_new_lawn_using_seed_e2910
I hope this helps!
Establishing a lawn by seed in Michigan involves several key steps to ensure successful growth. Here’s a summary of the process based on the MSU Extension guidelines:
Timing: The best time to seed your lawn in Michigan is August 15 to September 15. The warm days and cool nights are ideal for seed germination and seedling growth. Late spring or early summer is the second-best time, but seeding should not be done later than June 15.
Site Preparation:
Measure the area to be planted.
Conduct a soil test to determine nutrient needs. Details on soil testing at this link: https://homesoiltest.msu.edu/
Remove large rocks and debris.
Incorporate organic matter to improve soil structure.
Add fertilizer and lime as indicated by the soil test results.
Seeding:
Rake the surface to create a fine seedbed.
Select the appropriate turfgrass species for your conditions.
Evenly distribute the seed over the prepared area.
Rake and roll the seeded surface to ensure good seed-to-soil contact.
Post-Seeding Care:
Apply a thin layer of mulch, like straw, to conserve moisture.
Irrigate the newly seeded area frequently to moisten the topsoil without creating puddles.
Mow the area once the grass reaches an appropriate height.
Apply weed control, if necessary, after the grass is established.
Remember, the success of your new lawn depends on careful preparation, choosing the right seed varieties, and following these steps diligently. For more detailed information, you can refer to the MSU Extension’s guide on establishing a new lawn using seed at this link:
https://www.canr.msu.edu/resources/establishing_a_new_lawn_using_seed_e2910
I hope this helps!
