Grass Seeds
A great deal has been spent on research and development to produce
new grass varieties that are more insect and disease resistant, drought
tolerant, and adaptable to different environmental conditions.
In many cases, these improved varieties require less pesticides for
control and less water, when properly maintained.
Said another way, the improved lawn seed varieties are more environmentally
"friendly" than the grass you currently have in your lawn.
Knowing that you're buying quality, improved grass seed will depend
on how carefully you read the seed label
before your next purchase.
Did you know that most off-the-shelf grass seed contains a percentage
of weed seed? Or that a grass seed label may list the species of grass
seed but not the variety (Variety Not Stated 'VNS'). When purchasing
'VNS' you have no real idea what kind of grass you're getting.
100% or Blends?
Often you'll see labels reading blends or mixtures, or for sunny and
shade areas. Each grass variety is best suited for a particular type
of condition. Sun or shade, but not both. By mixing both types of seeds
in the bag, the producer can make these claims. When the grass germinates,
the one best suited to the conditions will thrive and the other will
not.
With a blend or mixture you can sow the same seed and be succ3essful
in the diversity of growing conditions common to most yards.
How much to buy?
Depends on which grass you choose. Seed is sold by the pound and because
of seed size, the quantity of seeds per pound will vary. For example:
1 pound of Kentucky bluegrass will seed about 1000 sq. ft., but you'll
need 7 pounds of tall fescue seed to cover that same area.
Calculate the sq. footage of the areas you'll be seeding. On the bag
it should tell you the exact rate of coverage and then buy and apply
accordingly.
Apply at the correct rate
Follow the label directions for rate of coverage. Putting down too
little seed increases the amount of time required to establish the lawn
if at all. Too much seed causes the new plants to compete with each
other and results in a thin lawn that is very slow to mature.
