How Long Do You Keep Straw Covering on Newly Seeded Lawns?

Use of Straw Mulch

• Of all the possible mulches for newly seeded lawns, straw is the most popular and most used. Straw mulch is also the least expensive of all mulches for new grass. The main source of straw mulch is from areas that process small grains such as barley, wheat, oats or rye. Hay is not an alternative for straw. The straw used for mulching grass contains very few grains and weed seeds.

Recommended Amount

• The recommended amount of straw is a bale of straw for every 1,000 square feet of lawn. This provides a light covering that will decompose gradually with seed germination and grass growth and does not require removal from the grass. When mulching on slopes, more straw is required. This excessive mulch needs to be raked out once seedlings are well established.

Mulch Advantages

• The application of straw on newly seeded areas serves a variety of important functions that include protecting seed loss from water, soil erosion and birds. Mulch also helps to moderate soil temperature and retains moisture that in turn helps with germination. Mulched turf establishes more rapidly and grows into a uniform stand. Soil crusting is also reduced in mulched areas.

Application Suggestions

• Apply mulch in a thin layer so that the soil is partially visible through the mulch. Do not apply a very thick layer as this will impede the germination of seeds and will stop sunlight from getting to the newly germinated grass. After applying the mulch, water the entire area as this will help to keep the mulch stabilized. If straw collects in piles in certain lawn areas due to wind, redistribute this again to avoid smothering grass under the piles.