Is Using Turf a Better Option to Seed?

Growing grass from seed can be a trial and error process. A lot of people think you can just throw the grass around and wait a week and see new sprouts popping up. While this works in theory and can give you some coverage, it isn’t the best means to getting a lush green lawn. In fact, growing grass that is grown using a runner rather than by a seed is almost always the better choice.

3 benefits of laying turf over seed.

1. Turf is already well established and has strong root growth before it ever reaches the end consumer. This means from the start that it has a better chance of success if installed properly and taken care of properly from the day it is harvested from the turf farm and set in your own yard.
2. Turf only requires being properly set on nutrient-rich soil, as well as deep water for the first few weeks of install. From there it is pretty much good to go.
3. Seed, on the other hand, has quite a few steps to ensure it properly takes, grows and creates a lush green lawn of your dreams. It is also temperamental, if not tended to correctly it will die. Turf is a hardier option and can tolerate being grown by a novice gardener.

If you do choose to grow grass from seed here is a helpful guide…

1. The first step is understanding what types of seed and grass grow best for your area. Growing rye grass for example, may be the perfect type for one type of area. While it may do quite poorly in others. Most varieties of lawn being grown by seed are more suited to a cooler climate. Where as this is different when compared buffalo, which is grown solely with a runner. Runner grass will often perform better in warmer climates, where humidity is higher. Therefore, when living in the Sydney area growing a lawn using a runner could be a much better choice. 

2. The next major component once you know what type of seed to grow is ensuring that your soil is properly prepared for the grass. As with the climate determining which seed grows best, so too does the soil. Some varieties of grass seed do best in acidic soil, while others prefer a more basic soil. Knowing what type of soil you have is a good start. You may need to add amendments and other nutrients to your soil before you ever set the first seed. Starting with healthy soil means a healthy lawn as the seeds will get the majority of their nutrients from the soil in its beginning days. This can leave a lot to error and is one of the reasons many prefer to start with turf.

Planting Your Seeds

1. Once your soil is in tip-top shape you can look at planting your seed. The seed needs to be evenly spread across the soil. Also they should be watered well until it has a chance to take root. If it’s too hot, or too cold, the seeds may dry or they may become dormant and not germinate. 
2. It will then begin to take root and grow. Proper maintenance and care from this point forward is key. You will need to ensure your lawn is receiving enough water and nutrients in order to stay healthy. This is particularly important in the warmer seasons, when your seeded lawn will require a lot of water to survive long periods of hot weather.

Growing from seeds or purchasing turf is ultimately your own decision. B Cut our team at Greener Lawn is always here to help you get your own greener lawn. Come visit us today and let the experts guide you to the perfect grass for your home.