Grass can grow just about anywhere--you simply need the right type of grass, proper nutrients and moisture, and protection from insects and weeds.
Planting Grass Seed in a Barren Area
One of the first steps in planting grass seed is checking the soil to see if it has all of the nutrients needed for healthy grass growth. Take a sample of the soil to your local agricultural extension, and they should be able to tell you what type of fertilizer your soil needs. Spread the fertilizer over that tough-to-grow area, and mix it in with the top soil. You should have about 4 inches of top soil for planting grass seeds--add soil if needed.
- Know Your Growing Zone: Warm weather grass types have a tough time thriving in cold weather growing zones, and the opposite is also true. Know your growing zone and choose the appropriate grass seeds. The National Arboretum has a helpful zone chart.
- Try a Blend: Certain grass seeds do better in different situations. Some seeds thrive in high-traffic areas, others flourish in high-moisture areas. Instead of planting grass seeds of one type, try a bag of blended grass seeds.
- Shade Provides a Challenge: Shady spots are the toughest areas to get grass seeds growing. Planting the right seed types is crucial, and you may have to do a little tree pruning to allow some sunlight through. Iowa State University has some good suggestions on seed types and other methods for tackling a shady area.
- Mixing Soil and Seed: Try mixing topsoil and seed together before spreading--this may produce successful results.
Follow these grass seed and planting tips for difficult-to-grow areas, and this may be the year your whole lawn turns green.
