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Grass Seed for Sun & Acidic Soil

For lawn-lovers, nothing compares to sinking your toes into cool, moist grass on a hot summer day. Looking across the yard and seeing a rich, dark green carpet of grass brings joy to landscapers and homeowners alike. Acidic soil and intense heat can be the obstacles that block this dream from becoming a reality. Matching the right lawn seed to soil type and temperature is the key to overcoming such an obstacle and having the lawn of your dreams.

  1. Acidic Soil

    • Areas with rainy climates usually have acidic soils.

      Soil pH is the measure of the acidity in the soil. pH is measured on a scale of 1 to 14, with neutral pH being 7. Ideal soil pH is slightly acidic, with values between 6 and 7. This number is important because certain nutrients may only be available to plants within this range of acidity. Rainy areas, such as the Pacific Northwest, usually have more acidic soil because the water leaches nutrients from the soil. Testing the soil will give an accurate pH level that will correctly identify the soil as acidic or alkaline.

    Adjusting and Preventing Acidic Soil

    • Over-fertilizing with nitrogen fertilizer can cause acidic soil.

      Depending on the pH levels in the soil, it may need to be adjusted for plants to grow. Soils with low pH, or acidic, can be adjusted by applying lime, though understanding the cause of acidic soil can help to prevent acidic soil. According to the Ohio State University Extension, using nitrogen fertilizers on the lawn has the potential to cause acidic conditions. Other factors may include irrigation with acidic water, as well as decomposing organic matter. Avoiding or adjusting these factors may preclude having to adjust the soil pH.

    Seed Varieties for Acidic Soil and Full Sun

    • Choose a grass seed based on climate and drainage.

      The North Carolina Forrest Seeding Service lists only two types of grass that prefer acidic soils and full sun. Carpetgrass is sun- and heat-tolerant, and prefers acidic soil. It excels in low-nutrient soils with high moisture content, but has difficulty with drought. Fescues prefer well-drained, acidic soils. This variety grows well in the spring and fall. It will stay light green in the summer, but does not grow. This makes it a favorite, as it doesn't need to be mowed as often as other grasses.

    Tips for Seeding a Lawn

    • Prior to seeding, clear away persistent or hard-to-control weeds. If using a herbicide, wait a few weeks before seeding. Till the soil 6 to 8 inches down, and work in some organic matter if the soil is compacted. Rake the soil to make an even area and to reduce low spots. Use a rotary or drop spreader to ensure even distribution of seed. Rake and roll the soil to provide a good seed bed for germination. Water lightly two or three times a day to prevent the soil from drying out during germination. Continue to water until seedlings emerge, and then reduce the frequency and increase the duration to water at a greater depth.

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Growing Grass
  1. Grass Seed Types for Under Pine Trees
  2. Depth for Grass Seeds in the Soil
  3. When to Sow Grass Seed?
  4. Soil Requirements for Zoysia Grass
  5. The Best Grass Seed for Poor Soil
  6. The Best Soil for Grass Seed
  7. Steps for Growing Grass
  8. Guide to Preparing a Lawn for Grass Seed
  9. Soil Preparation for Grass Seed
  10. How to Prepare for New Grass Seed
  11. Temperature for Planting Grass Seed
  12. Temperature for Planting Grass Seed

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