The step-by-step guide to growing grass from scratch
The simple joy of soft, lush grass under your feet. Whether you’re starting fresh after moving into a new home or giving your outdoor space a much-needed makeover, growing grass from scratch is more than just a goal—it’s an adventure. And guess what? You absolutely can do this, no matter your experience level. Let’s roll up those sleeves and get started!
Step 1: Plan Your Patch of Green
First things first, where’s this dreamy lawn going to grow? Take a stroll around your yard and pick the perfect area. Keep an eye out for how much sunlight the space gets because not all grass types like the same amount of sun. Got kids or pets who will run around on it? Factor that in too. The heart of great grass is choosing a variety that suits your lifestyle and climate.
Pro Tip:
If your yard is like a jigsaw puzzle with some shady spots and some sunny areas, don’t stress. You can blend grass seeds to suit different conditions. Our team can help you pick the best mix!
Step 2: Clear the Slate
Think of this as preparing the canvas for your masterpiece! Clear the area of any weeds, debris, or leftover plants. If you’re dealing with stubborn weeds, use a weed killer but give it plenty of time to dissipate before planting. Remove stones and other obstacles so your grass can grow evenly without any hiccups.
Step 3: Soil Love
Your soil is like the bed your grass seeds will sleep in, so it pays to make it cosy. Test your soil to see whether it’s lacking any nutrients or has the wrong pH balance. Adding some compost or a quality soil conditioner can do wonders, and it helps create that lovely crumbly texture grass thrives in. Don’t forget to level out the surface with a rake too—no one wants an accidental ankle sprain while admiring their handiwork!
Step 4: Sow the Seeds
Here comes the fun part—sowing! For an even spread, mix the grass seeds with some sand in a bucket before sprinkling them over the soil. It’s like seasoning your favourite dish to perfection (but don’t toss them about like seasoning—they need to spread evenly). Afterward, gently rake them into the top layer of soil. You’re not burying them, just tucking them in snugly.
Step 5: Water Wisely
Watering is key, but it’s all about balance. Too little, and your seeds will dry out. Too much, and they’ll drown. Aim to mist the soil lightly but frequently, keeping it consistently damp. It’s like caring for a newborn—you’ve got to be attentive! Once the grass starts sprouting, you can ease up and water less often.
Step 6: Be Patient and Persistent
Grass doesn’t grow overnight, no matter how much you stare at it (go ahead and try, we all do it). Within 7-21 days, you’ll start to see those first little blades shooting up, and trust me, it’s magical. Stay consistent with watering and keep pets and foot traffic off the area to give your grass the best chance to thrive.
Step 7: Feed That Lawn
Once your grass feels like a proper lawn in the making, it’s time to feed it. A slow-release fertiliser is like giving your grass a protein shake—perfect for strong, healthy growth. Just make sure to follow the instructions on the fertiliser bag to avoid overfeeding.
Step 8: The First Mow
Ah, the first cut! Once your grass reaches about 7-8cm high, you can trim its locks. Set your mower blades high to avoid cutting it too short—you wouldn’t want to shock all its hard work, right? From here on, mowing becomes part of your new gardening routine.
Your Lawn, Your Pride
Before you know it, you’ll be enjoying morning coffees, weekend BBQs, and barefoot strolls on your new lawn. Grass growing isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s about creating a space that feels like home. And it’s a little reminder that great things grow when you give them care.
Need supplies or some friendly advice? Swing by Strathalbyn H Hardware’s Garden Centre. We’ve got all the tools, seeds, and know-how to back you up every step of the way. Pop in for a chat—we’d love to see you get started on your dream lawn!
Happy growing,
Candeece
