How to Grow Grass Lawns

Choose a quality seed to begin your lawn. When shopping for seed, look for varieties that have been tested by the National Turf Evaluation Program, according to the Greenview Fertilizer website. These varieties tend to be better in color and provide more protection against drought and insect infestation.

Determine the time of year you need to plant your grass. For cool-season grasses (Kentucky bluegrass, tall fescue) plant toward the end of summer so the seeds can use the cooler months to establish. Warmer-season grasses (St. Augustine, Bermuda) should be planted by the late spring.

Prepare the soil for planting. Use a rototiller to break up the surface of the soil down approximately 2 inches. Remove rocks or sticks that remain in the soil by hand after loosening the area.

Pour the lawn seed into a spreader and apply to the entire soil area. For uniform growth, spread seeds going straight in one direction, and going back in the opposite direction at an angle, according to Lawn Care for Dummies.

Rake the soil gently to push the seeds down into the soil about ¼ inch for protection against birds or animals. Mist the entire soil area with a misting attachment on the hose, adding just enough to moisten the soil down about 6 inches, but do not soak it or create puddles. Water the area for a short period of time over the day.

Create a watering schedule to ensure the seeds grow into a healthy lawn. Moisten the soil 6 inches down to properly germinate. Water the lawn daily until grass has been established and features a growth of 2 inches, according to the Greenview Fertilizer website. Once grass has grown, water the lawn on a weekly schedule rather than a daily schedule.