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I rolled my new seed too much. Now what?

theconstantgardeners

15 years ago

Our front yard is very small, and after aerating, limeing, fertilizing and overseeding (fescue blend), I rolled the yard with a half full roller that I rented. Two weeks later and the fescue is coming up, but not at all in some places.

After reading some old posts, I'm realizing that I probably rolled the yard too much, or with a roller that was too heavy. I think the seeds that aren't growing are completely under the surface of the soil. Is there anything I can do at this point? Will raking it help?

Thanks!

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Comments (4)

billhill
15 years ago
I doubt that rolling made your seed come up unevenly. Give it a couple more weeks. Don't rake. Keep the seedbed moist until all the seed has germinated and for a couple weeks after. Water at the first sign of drought stress this summer. Spring planted grass has immature root system. Spring seeding is difficult. You may have better luck in the fall. Oh, did you mulch or cover the seeds with anything ?
Bill Hill
theconstantgardeners
Original Author
15 years ago
Yes, I used a pretty good bit of hay.
Your response makes me feel a lot better, and this afternoon I actually noticed that more grass was coming up. I think patience and water, water, water are the best course of action.

Should the hay be completely covering so you can't see the ground? Also, the soil is pretty much clay with a little top soil mixed in, another reason I was concerned the seed was burried.

Lastly, should I worry about overwatering? I'm giving it a thorough soaking a couple times a day. Thanks so much !!
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garycinchicago
15 years ago
First, don't worry about the rolling. Seed to soil contact is vital for germination.

>Lastly, should I worry about overwatering? I'm giving it a thorough soaking a couple times a day"

Keep the soil moist, wet, damp at all times, but adjust watering as soil becomes soaked / water logged. Never allow puddles.
billhill
15 years ago
Also, leave the hay or straw down all year. Resist the temptation to rake it up. It will continue to act as a mulch and hold some moisture and shade the soil in the heat of summer. It will eventually decompose and be replaced by a healthy thatch layer.

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