2.) Select appropriateTM EarthCarpetTM seed mixture – An EarthCarpetTM mixture or blend has been developed for practically any situation. Consult with your dealer if you have any doubts about the right mixture for your unique situation.
3.) Test Soil- Test, don’t guess!- Obtain a soil test before planting. Soil testing identifies what soil needs and what soil does not need! A soil test will help determine if any amendments are needed.
4.) Spray out weeds with herbicide containing glyphosate- Follow manufacturers directions for proper use!
5.) Cultivate soil tilling in any needed amendments per soil test (Lime, potassium or phosphorus)- Spread any needed amendments and till soil to a depth of 3-4 inches. Ideal seed bed will be a combination of soil particles ranging from approximately a quarter inch to a full inch in size. Do not over till! Working the soil to a fine powder will cause the soil to crust over and dry out quickly leading to poor lawn establishment.
6.) Rough Grade - Remove any rocks or debris golf ball size or larger. Check that the overall slope is downhill from the house to the edge of lot. Any noticeable high or low spots should be leveled.
7.) Final Grade - Rake and smooth. Take a final look for low and high spots and correct any that may remain.
8.) Firm up soil with light irrigation- Lightly dampen soil before seeding. Apply a fine mist from hose. If puddles are forming, you are applying too much water.
9.) Apply seed evenly, spreading it in two direction. ( Insert Step 1 and Step 2 graphic from bag)
10.) Use seeding rate appropriate for chosen seed mixture. (Insert seeding rate graphic from bag, but not seeding rate text)
11.) Apply seed starter fertilizer – Extremely important for proper root development.
12.) Roll surface - Use an unfilled lawn roller to firm but not over pack the soil surface.
13.) Irrigate frequently at least 3X/day for 6 weeks- Water as often as necessary to keep top = inch of soil moist but not soaking. Pay close attention that soil does not dry out due to an afternoon’s sun and heat.
14.) Apply 2nd application of seed starter fertilizer 3 weeks after seeding (crucial)
15.) Begin weekly mowing when first seedlings reach 1 =-2”- Keep mower blades sharp and do not mow right after watering to avoid damaging seedling plants.
16.) Raise mowing height to 3-3 = after 6 weeks- Mow as often as required following the 1/3 rule. Never remove more than 1/3 of the grass blade at a time.
17.) Begin standard fertilization and irrigation programs after 8 weeks –Do not apply any weed control products until lawn has been mowed at least four times and a minimum of 8 weeks has passed. Follow manufacture’s recommendations for new lawns.
Renovating Your Existing Lawn
Renovating your lawn with EarthCarpetTM mixtures or blends can help you break the Cycle of Frustration and finally enjoy the lawn that you deserve.
1. Test Soil- Test, don’t guess!- Obtain a soil test before planting. Soil testing identifies what soil needs and what soil does not need! A soil test will help determine if any amendments are needed.
2. Select appropriate EarthCarpetTM seed mixture – An EarthCarpetTM mixture or blend has been developed for practically any situation. Consult with your dealer if you have any doubts about the right mixture for your unique situation.
3. Spray out weeds with herbicide containing glyphosate- Follow manufacturers directions for proper use!
4. Scalp lawn down as close as possible- Mow as low as possible without stalling mower. Rake and remove clippings.
5. Core aerate lawn to encourage abundant root growth of new turfgrass – Equipment should be available for rental in your area.
6. Plant new seed no deeper than 1/8” deep with mechanical planting equipment ie. (slit or slice seeder). Plant lawn in two directions. Use seeding rate appropriate for chosen seed mixture.- Equipment should be available for rental in your area.
7. Apply starter fertilizer – Extremely important for proper root development.
8. Irrigate frequently at least 3X/day for 6 weeks- Water as often as necessary to keep top = inch of soil moist but not soaking. Pay close attention that soil does not dry out due to an afternoon’s sun and heat. Apply 2nd application of starter fertilizer 3 weeks after seeding (crucial)
9. Begin weekly mowing when first seedlings reach 1 =-2”- Keep mower blades sharp and do not mow right after watering to avoid damaging seedling plants.
10. Raise mowing height to 3-3 = after 6 weeks- Mow as often as required following the 1/3 rule. Never remove more than 1/3 of the grass blade at a time.
11. Begin standard fertilization and irrigation programs after 8 weeks –Do not apply any weed control products until lawn has been mowed at least four times.
