The best seasons for starting a lawn are early fall or as early in the spring as possible. Annual weeds are much less agressive in late summer. Following are some tips to start a new lawn.

1. Work and Level Soil
Prepare a seedbed of approximately 6 inches of topsoil and slope it away from the buildings to allow for drainage.

2. Allow Soil to Settle
Periodic soaking and drying will naturally settle the soil and provide a good firm seedbed.

3. Prepare Soil Surface for Seeding
Loosen the top 1/2 - 1 inch of the soil to a course texture. (Soil particle from pea to golfball size).

4. Fertilize
To insure that the soil contains all the nutrients the lawn will need, fertilize with a quality lawn fertilizer.

5. Apply Seed 4 lbs. per 1000 sq. ft.
Fertilizer spreaders work well to apply lawn seed. Distribute evenly applying half the seed in one direction and the other half in a perpendicular direction. To check the application rate, seed a small area and measure the amount of seed applied.

6. Work Seed into Top 1/4 Inch of Soil
This may be accomplished by dragging the back of a leaf rake, old carpet remnant, or piece of chain link fence. Do not cover seed too deeply. Some seed should stay on the surface. Roll or pack soil to conserve moisture.

7. Water Lightly and Frequently
After seeding, thoroughly water the area. Keep the surface damp by sprinkling the surface 3-4 times daily. A very light covering of weed free clippings will help keep the soil surface moist.

8. Mow at 2-3 Inches
Set the mower height at about 2 inches. Mowing often will reduce weed competition.