Lawn in autumn

Early autumn is the ideal time to sow a new lawn into soil prepared during the previous seasons. Doing this now will give a good start for the lawn in the spring. Be sure that the soil has been well firmed and allowed to settle before leveling. Seed maybe sown either by hand or by a machine.

First you need to calculate the amount of seed that you need for the area to be sown. Before sowing the seed, shake the container to mix the seeds and ensure that small seeds do not settle to the bottom and thus give an uneven distribution of grass types.

If sowing by hand first divide the area into small equal-sized sections using string and canes or pegs. This makes it easier to sow the seed evenly. Work on one section at a time scattering half the seed of a batch in one direction, then sowing the other half at right angles to this before moving on the next section.

Sowing by machine is the best way to sow the grass seed over a large area. For even coverage sow half of the seed in one direction and the other half at right angles to this. A well defined lawn edge may be achieved by laying a plastic sheeting at the site edge and running the machine just over it.

After sowing lightly rake over the surface. Unless rain is forecast water the site with a sprinkler, and ensure the soil remain moist until germination is completed. Germination will occur in one to two weeks, depending on grass species, soil and air temperature and moisture.

Use netting or scarers to keep birds away. Once the seedlings have emerged the surface may be gently firmed with a light-weight roller.

Early autumn is also a good time for over-sowing. Where grass growth is very thin and sparse, over-seed now with the proper grass seed mixture. Cut the lawn, then rake the surface to remove debris. Sprinkle with seed sweeping it into the surface. On small areas cover with a fine layer of compost.

Continue regular mowing, raking off dead grass and any debris that has accumulated deep down in the lawn over the summer. Apply an autumn lawn food to encourage good root growth and strengthen the grass for the coming winter.