Sowing grass seed to make a new lawn allows you to choose a grass seed mixture most appropriate for your needs. Whether you want a general-purpose lawn, a bowling green lawn or a hard-wearing football pitch, there’s the perfect grass seed mix for you. There are also lawn seed mixes to buy for shady gardens and dry gardens.
Hardwearing lawns are usually composed of a mix of perennial ryegrass (Lolium perenne) and strong red fescue (Festuca rubra). Ornamental lawns tend to contain a mix of low-growing, fine-leaved slender red fescue (Festuca rubra subsp. rubra) and bentgrass (Agrostis stolonifera).
How to sow grass seed
You can sow grass seed in spring or autumn. If sowing in autumn, the seed will germinate quickly as the ground is warm and moist. Germination may be slightly slower in spring. Prepare the soil well by digging over, removing weeds and raking level. It’s a good idea to sow grass seed just after rain or before light rain is due, so the seed will germinate quickly. Avoid sowing during a prolonged dry spell or ahead of heavy rains, which can wash grass seeds away.
Sow grass seed at rate of one-and-a half ounces per square metre. Rake the seed after sowing and mark the area with sticks or canes to deter cats and birds.
More on growing grass and lawns:
Find out how to sow grass seed, below.
Once your lawn is established, why not invest in some kit to keep it looking in great condition. Our experts have tested the best lawn mowers to buy, as well as the best scarifiers and best aerators.
You Will Need
- Grass seed
- Canes
- Plastic cup
- Rake
Step 1
Sow grass seed at the rate of one-and-a half ounces per square metre. Weigh out the first amount, put it in a plastic cup and mark the side to use as a measure. Using canes, mark out your site into 1m squares and scatter one cup of seed evenly into each.
Step 2
Rake the seed in after sowing and lay a few twiggy sticks on the surface to discourage birds and cats. Once the grass starts to grow it can be given its first cut when it reaches 4cm high.
Prepare the ground thoroughly before sowing and try to avoid exposing the lawn to too much wear and tear during the first season.
