Roanoke Times
Copyright (c) 1995, Landmark Communications, Inc.
DATE: THURSDAY, July 28, 1994 TAG: 9407280056
SECTION: CURRENT PAGE: NRV-8 EDITION: NEW RIVER VALLEY
SOURCE: Joe Hunnings
DATELINE: LENGTH: Medium
Turf may be established from seed, springs, plugs, or sod. The method depends on the grass species desired, the environmental conditions, time constraints, and financial considerations. If possible, use only certified seed and sod. The same requirements for soil preparation apply for all methods.
WHEN TO PLANT
Turfgrasses are best established during certain periods of the year when temperature, moisture, and day-length are most favorable for establishing cool-season or warm-season grasses. Cool-season turfgrasses best suited for the New River Valley are best seeded in late summer; early spring seedings are prone to damage from crabgrass invasions and summer drought.
SOIL PREPARATION
Soil Test: The first step is to have the soil tested; this will determine which nutrients are available in the soil, and will provide liming and fertilization recommendations. Forms and instructions for obtaining soil samples are available from your local Extension office.
Weed Control: Any perennial broadleaf or grassy weeds should be eliminated prior to planting by properly applying a herbicide.
Installation of Irrigation and Drainage: An irrigation system or drainage tile, if needed, should be installed prior to topsoil preparation, in order to avoid subsoil contamination of topsoil.
SOIL TILLAGE AND GRADING
Completely till the soil to a depth of four to six inches where: 1. soil compaction is severe; 2. large amounts of phosphorus or lime are recommended; 3. surface drainage is inadequate or, 4. the soil is to be amended. If the area is to be graded, first save the topsoil for late use by moving it to one side.
The subgrade should slope away from buildings, and the area should be allowed to settle through two or more rains before planting. Low spots in the yard where water collects should be filled with additional soil. All building debris, large rock, and rotting wood should be removed from the site. If the topsoil has been stockpiled, it should be spread uniformly over the entire lawn area. Ideally, there should be a minimum of six to eight inches of topsoil. Where topsoil is limited, mix the available topsoil into the upper inch of subsoil by tilling. Once the soil is prepared, care should be taken not to disturb it.
Lime: Turfgrasses do not perform well in acidic soils, and most soils in Virginia are acidic -- below pH 6.2, the ideal pH for lawns. Lime recommendations to raise the soil pH to 6.2 will be made from the soil test. The lime should be tilled into the soil to a depth of four to six inches. If soil tests indicate low available magnesium levels, dolomitic limestone should be used.
Fertilizer: When applying the fertilizer recommended in the soil test, it is beneficial to till in two thirds of the amount to a depth of four to six inches. The remaining one third should be applied to the surface just prior to seeding, then lightly raked into the soil.
Seeding: Prepare a smooth, firm seedbed. Rake the seedbed to create shallow, uniform depressions (rows) about a quarter-inch deep and one to two inches apart. Seeding rates are: two to three pounds per 1,000 square feet for bluegrass and four to six pounds per 1,000 square feet for tall fescue.
Divide seed in half; sow first half of seed in one direction (north-south); sow the remaining seed in the opposite direction (east-west). Cover the seed by raking lightly.
Next, the seedbed should be rolled. Mulch the area with straw or other suitable material so that approximately 50 to 75 percent of the soil surface is covered. This is normally accomplished by spreading 11/2 to 2 bales of high quality, weed-free straw per 1,000 square feet. A light mulch does not need to be removed after establishment of the turfgrass.
CARING FOR A NEW LAWN
Post-Planting Irrigation: New seedlings require frequent watering to ensure constant surface moisture for 30 days following planting. On hot days, several light waterings may be required during the day.
For more information on selection, planting, cultural practices, and environmental quality, you may wish to attend a program on lawn establishment Aug. 4, 7:00 p.m., at the Christiansburg Branch Library, 125 Sheltman St. Joe Hunnings, Agriculture Extension Agent, will present the program. No registration is necessary.
Joe Hunnings is the Virginia Cooperative Extension agent for agriculture in the Montgomery County Extension Office in Christiansburg. If you have questions, call him at 382-5790.
by CNB