SPRINGFIELD -- Early fall is the optimum time to establish a cool season lawn from seed according to Patrick Byers, horticulture specialist with University of Missouri Extension.
"Turf species such as tall fescue and Kentucky bluegrass establish well from seed at this time, the weather is cooling and rains are more regular, and weeds are easier to manage," said Byers.
The following are the steps to establishing a new lawn from seed.
First, collect a soil sample from the site of the proposed lawn. Check with the nearest University of Missouri Extension office for information on the best way to collect and submit the sample. (Resources are also available online at http://extension.missouri.edu/greene/soiltestcentral.aspx)
Next, remove any existing grass or weeds from the site. A non-selective herbicide, applied in advance, can help with this process.
Then rough grade the lawn site, remove any rocks or other debris, and rake smooth. Apply amendments such as lime and fertilizer.
Many lawn soils benefit from an application of compost or peat moss; spread out the material to a depth of one to two inches, and work into the upper four to six inches of the soil.
"The next step is to apply a starter fertilizer such as 10-24-18 to aid in rapid grass seedling growth. Work this fertilizer into the top inch of soil," said Byers. "Follow this with seeding of the desired grass species."
Spread a thin layer of straw mulch over the lawn, and water the newly seeded lawn daily until the grass seedlings are two inches tall.
For more information, contact one of MU Extension's horticulture specialists or educators in southwest Missouri. These include Patrick Byers in Greene County, (417) 881-8909, Kelly McGowan in Greene County, (417) 881-8909 or Robert Balek in Jasper County, (417) 358-2158.
Community on 10/21/2015