Topdressing and Seeding tips
Autumn is just around the corner, and this means it’s almost time for topdressing your lawn. Topdressing improves the quality of your lawn over time by promoting healthier, more hydrated soil, which is optimal for strong root development, resulting in a thicker, more lush lawn next summer! Below are our tips for topdressing your lawn this fall.
Choose the Right Amount of Topdressing
The right amount of topdressing to apply will depend on your intentions. If you are trying to smooth the bumps and valleys in your lawn, apply about 3 to 4 kilos per square metre. If you are applying topdressing as a maintenance technique to an otherwise well-manicured and healthy lawn, then 1 to 2 kilos per square metre will do the job. Remember, when you are applying thicker layers of topdressing, you only want to do this about 2 to 3 times per year; if you are applying thinner layers, this can be done much more frequently throughout the spring/summer/fall seasons for maintenance.
Plan Your Application Process
If you plan to aerate or scarify your lawn this autumn, do this before applying a topdressing. If you are applying a heavy amount of topdressing, it is best to spread the seeds once you are finished in order to help ensure even seed placement. However, if you are simply applying a light topdressing to give your lawn a little boost, you can lay the seed before applying the topdressing. By applying the topdressing after seeding, you are able to insulate the seeds and protect them from movement due to animals, wind and/or rain.
Apply Topdressing with Care
In order to maximize the effectiveness of your topdressing, be sure to mow the lawn prior to application. Apply the topdressing in small quantities throughout the yard, and then spread from there. You will then need to work the topdressing deeper into the soil carefully – a stiff brush or a garden leveller works best – avoiding disturbing any of the live grass roots. Once spread, 75% of the grass blade should be exposed; be sure not to smother the grass.
Maintain Lawn After Topdressing
Try your best to stay off the grass for at least 48 hours following application of topdressing and seed – longer if you have applied the seed on top of the topdressing. Be sure to apply regular water, in long intervals, to promote deeper root growth in your grass for a strong, lush lawn. Wait to mow the lawn until at least 3 to 4 days after applying the topdressing to avoid loss of soil.
Wondering how to get your lawn and garden ready for winter? The lawn and garden experts at Hansen Lawn & Gardens have years of experience creating beautiful outdoor spaces for homeowners across Ottawa. Contact us today!