Tips on Growing Grass Seed With Compost

Compost is an ideal medium to plant along with grass seed and encourage growth. Use it when planting and growing grass seed as a soil-conditioning agent. It helps protect and insulate the grass seed, paving the way for thicker and healthier grass over your lawn in the long run. You can find compost at any local gardening store, or even create your own in your yard made up of organic materials. Keep some key things in mind when growing grass seed with compost, such as soil preparation, using the right amount of compost and how to properly integrate the grass seed with the compost.

Use a Generous Amount of Compost

Plan ahead so you can make sure you have enough compost for your entire lawn. You need a layer about 1/3- to 1/2-inch thick of compost for the entire lawn. Figure out the amount of compost you will need in cubic feet by multiplying the width and length of the grass or seeded area, then multiply that result by 1/3. Find one that is specific to your grass variety, region and soil. It may be a good idea to test the pH of the soil before choosing a compost, so you can decide if you want one to balance out the pH if necessary.

Planting the Grass Seed

Plant grass seed with compost in spring or fall in order to get to maximum amount of cooler weather and natural rain. Especially for the northern half of the United States, planting grass seed with compost in fall is common because the ground is still warm. Keep in mind that you want to integrate the grass seed with the compost with a light raking.

Seed Bed Preparation

It is important to have a well-tilled lawn in preparation of the grass seed and compost. Use a till to loosen up the top four inches of the soil. Layer the compost directly on top of the tilled soil in an even thick layer. Mix it thoroughly with the rake over the entire space of the lawn. Layer the grass seed on top of the compost layer, starting on one side of the yard and working one way. After completing this layer, start from the other side of the lawn and layer more seed to ensure an even coverage of seed. Lightly water in the seed with a soft rain sprayer so as not to disturb the seed placement.