Growing thick, lush grass requires ample care and attention. One critical consideration is how to properly apply fertilizer and soil to establish healthy root systems.
A common question is: should you cover grass seed with soil? The answer depends on whether the grass seed is planted in a lawn or garden bed.
In a lawn, the recommendation is to not cover the grass seed with soil after planting. Instead, an appropriate layer of straw should be used for insulation. This helps to retain moisture and keep birds from eating the seeds. It also encourages germination by protecting against drought, weeds, and direct sunlight.
In garden beds, it’s best to lightly cover with a thin layer of compost or potting mix to protect against harsh weather conditions while promoting germination and providing essential nutrients for young roots as they develop. Be sure not to over-cover – use no more than half an inch of soil atop the seeds at any given time – otherwise, you risk smothering them in the process.
When applying either straw or soil, it’s important to make sure you don’t damage the top layer of existing turf below; this could result in poor water absorption and other undesirable effects that could harm your grass patch. Additionally, cautious watering is necessary so as not to wash away newly sown seeds; moderate sprinkles are recommended after installation for optimal germination rates.