Two Direction Seeding Methods

Preparing the Planting Site

• Gardeners will not get a uniform-looking yard if the planting site is full of weeds and debris. Weeds compete with grass seed for the soil's nutrients, take up space, reduce air flow and break up the overall texture of the yard. Debris such as rocks or constriction materials will not support grass growth; therefore, gardeners will have bare areas. Spray down weeds with a herbicide that contains glyphosate. Wait five to 14 days after spraying to seed your lawn, as suggested by the University of Minnesota. Remove all debris out of the lawn.

Seeding Preparation

• Measure the square footage of the lawn. Check your grass seed to find out how much to distribute per 1,000 square feet. For example, Kentucky bluegrass should be seeded at a rate of two to 3 lbs. per 1,000 square feet, while bermuda grass must be distributed at a rate of 1 lb. per 1,000 square feet. Divide the amount of grass seed you need in half. Pour into whatever you intend to use to distribute grass seed, like a broadcast, drop or handheld spreader.

Seeding

• Sow your grass seeds following a vertical pathway back and forth across the yard, as suggested by the University of California. Try to walk as straight on your pathway as possible. Pour the rest of your grass seed in your spreader. Walk horizontally, sowing your grass seed back and forth. You should be able to look out and see a thin layer of grass seed evenly coating your lawn. Broadcast grass seed by hand in small areas in the yard that are hard to reach with your spreader.

After Care

• Cover your grass seed with 1/16 to 1/8 of an inch of dirt by raking the seed into the yard, as recommended by the University of California. You can also use compost to cover your seeds to contribute nutrients. Water the lawn to moisten the soil. When taking care of your grass seed, never let the seeds dry out. Dried-out seeds will not germinate. Water the lawn with a mist of water two to three times a day to help your seeds germinate.