Growing a lush, green lawn from seed can be a rewarding experience, but it requires patience and proper care. One crucial aspect of establishing a new lawn is protecting the grass seeds until they are strong enough to survive on their own. In this comprehensive guide, we will discuss the importance of using straw blankets, mulch, and mats, determining when to remove the covering, potential issues if left on too long, and caring for new grass after covering removal.
Importance of Straw Blankets, Mulch, and Mats
These coverings provide several essential benefits to newly seeded grass:
- Insulation: They help maintain consistent soil temperatures, ensuring optimal conditions for seed germination and growth.
- Moisture retention: Coverings help retain moisture in the soil, preventing it from drying out and keeping the seeds hydrated.
- Erosion control: They reduce the risk of soil and seed displacement due to wind or water, allowing the grass to establish a strong root system.
- Weed prevention: By blocking sunlight, coverings help suppress weed growth, giving the new grass a competitive advantage.
A. Straw blankets, mulch, and mats provide insulation and prevent weed growth and erosion of new grass seeds.
There are several types of coverings available, each with its advantages:
- Straw blankets: Made from agricultural straw, these biodegradable blankets are held together by a lightweight mesh material. They are easy to install and provide excellent insulation and erosion control.
- Mulch: Typically made from wood chips, shredded bark, or compost, mulch provides insulation, moisture retention, and weed suppression. It also slowly decomposes, adding nutrients to the soil.
- Mats: Erosion control mats are made from various materials like coir, jute, or synthetic fibers. They are durable and provide excellent erosion control and insulation.
B. They should be left on until the grass reaches 3-4 inches tall.
For best results, coverings should be left in place until the new grass has grown to a height of 3-4 inches. This ensures the grass is strong enough to withstand the removal of the covering without damage.
Determining When to Remove The Covering
A. Look for signs the grass is established: grass blades standing upright, healthy green color, roots visibly sprouting from the soil.
These signs indicate that the grass is well-established and ready for the covering to be removed. Be patient, as the time it takes for grass to reach this stage can vary depending on factors like seed type, climate, and soil conditions.
B. Gently lift up an edge of the covering to check if the grass is growing thick and strong. If so, it is ready for removal.
Examine the grass under the covering to ensure it is thick and strong before removing it. If the grass appears sparse or weak, allow more time for growth before attempting removal.
C. Remove the covering gradually to allow the grass to adjust to sunlight and temperatures. Do not remove all at once.
When removing the covering, do so in stages over several days to give the grass time to adjust to increased sunlight and temperature changes. This gradual process reduces the risk of shock and potential damage to the new grass.
Potential Issues If Left On Too Long
A. Coverings block sunlight and slow grass growth. Grass may become weak and prone to disease or insects.
If coverings are left on for too long, the lack of sunlight can cause the grass to become weak and susceptible to various diseases and insect infestations. Ensure that the coverings are removed at the appropriate time to promote healthy growth.
B. Excess moisture from coverings can lead to fungus growth on the grass leaves and stems.
Trapped moisture under the coverings creates a favorable environment for fungal growth, which can damage the grass. Regularly inspect the area for signs of fungus and remove the covering when the grass is established to avoid this issue.
C. Rodents or insects may nest under coverings, damaging the grass.
Pests, like rodents and insects, may find the dark and protected environment under coverings an ideal place to nest. This can lead to damage to the grass and roots. Monitor for signs of pest activity and address any issues promptly to protect your new lawn.
Caring for New Grass After Covering Removal
A. Water the grass thoroughly after removing the covering to minimize shock. Grass may wilt at first but will regrow vigorously.
Once the covering is removed, water the lawn deeply to help the grass recover from any stress or shock. The grass may initially wilt but should bounce back quickly with proper care.
B. Fertilize the lawn according to a schedule to promote fast, healthy growth.
Fertilizing the lawn with a balanced fertilizer, according to the recommended schedule for your specific grass type, will help promote strong, healthy growth. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for proper application rates and timing.
C. Mow grass once it reaches 3-4 inches tall, then continue to mow regularly based on grass type requirements.
Begin mowing the new grass once it reaches a height of 3-4 inches. Mow at the highest recommended height for your specific grass type to encourage deep root growth and overall lawn health. Mow regularly, following the “one-third rule,” which states never to remove more than one-third of the grass blade height in a single mowing.
Conclusion
Protecting newly seeded grass is essential for establishing a healthy, thriving lawn. By using straw blankets, mulch, or mats to insulate and protect the grass seeds, you can ensure a successful start for your new lawn. Monitor the grass’s progress and remove the covering at the appropriate time to avoid potential issues. Finally, provide proper care after the covering is removed to help your lawn grow strong and beautiful. With patience and attention, you’ll soon enjoy a lush, green lawn that enhances your landscape.
