Your Hydro-mulching application contains grass seed that requires a continuous supply of moisture. This moisture must come from rainfall or watering. It is not likely that it will rain everyday for the next week or two, so be sure to water frequently enough to keep moisture in the soil.
Initial Watering: During the establishment phase, once-a-day watering is usually appropriate during March and April; however, the weather conditions may require more or less water. On very hot summer days, three or more waterings a day may be required. Avoid puddling and washing, but water thoroughly.
The second phase of the watering program begins when the grass is about 1″ tall. Reduce the frequency of watering to once or twice a week. In the very hot summer, three times a week is required. Also reduce or discontinue watering during wet and/or cool periods.
Mowing: A new lawn should be mowed as soon as the grass blades are 2″ to 3″ high. Delaying the first cutting encourages weed growth , and allows long grass blades to bend over, causing a shabby appearance. Mowing plays a vital role in controlling the weeds, giving the grass the opportunity to “choke out the weeds”. Subsequent mowing should be done every week, and the blades of the lawnmower should always be kept sharp. Sharp blades prevent bruised and torn grass blades. Bruised or damaged grass invites grass disease and results in unsightly brown spots.
If the grass gets too tall before it is mowed, raise the mower. Mowing young tall grass too close can kill the grass. A good rule of thumb is to never mow off more than one-third of the grass leaves during any one cutting.
Initial Fertilizing Program: The new grass will need a strong application of balanced fertilizer after the first mowing and again 30 days later. Apply the fertilizer on the lawn area when it is dry and then water thoroughly. Use a standard balanced fertilizer available at almost any lawn supply store.
Examples include the following:
- 10-10-10
- 12-12-12
- 13-13-13
- 14-14-14
- 10-20-10
- 12-24-12
Apply at rates recommended on the bag. If no recommendation is on the fertilizer bag, usually about 50 lbs on a 5,000 square foot average lawn will be suitable. And, be sure to water thoroughly immediately after applying the fertilizer.
DO NOT — USE WEED KILLER ON A NEW LAWN.