Best lawn irrigation specialists near Moberly, MO

While hydroseeding is typically meant for bare soil, it is possible to hydroseed over an existing lawn with some adjustments. For the new seed to germinate and thrive, it needs good seed-to-soil contact. Without it, most of the seed may not take root and will die. To improve your chances of success when repairing a patchy area, mow any existing grass as low as possible and loosen any exposed soil before application. It is also recommended to use a finer mulch mixture when spraying, as this will help the seeds reach the soil and root without suffocating the existing grass.

The time you should wait before walking on new grass depends on whether you used seed or sod. If you laid new grass seed, it's best to wait about eight weeks before stepping on it, as new grass is fragile. For sod, it typically establishes itself in the ground in about two weeks. For heavy traffic, like driving a car across a new grass driveway, you might need to wait an entire season.

Many homeowners in warmer climates like this resilient, hearty grass because it can tolerate excessive heat and drought while developing into a lush lawn. Unlike other grasses, Bermuda grass grows and spreads quickly and can withstand excessive foot traffic. But whether Bermuda grass is good for lawns may depend on your geographic location, as this grass has a low tolerance for cooler temperatures, which causes it to go dormant and turn brown in the winter months.

The best time to plant grass seed depends on your local climate and whether you have cool-season or warm-season grass.

For cool-season grasses (like tall fescue), the ideal time to seed is late summer or early fall (typically August and September). During this period, the soil is still warm from the summer, but the air is cooler, creating optimal conditions for germination and root establishment before winter. There is also less competition from weeds. Spring is a secondary option, but cooler soil temperatures, the risk of a late frost, and less time for the grass to mature before summer heat can make it less successful.

For warm-season grasses (like St. Augustine), the best time to plant is from late spring through mid-summer (typically May and June), when temperatures are consistently between 75 and 90 degrees Fahrenheit.

In general, it is best to avoid seeding during winter or early spring, as cold soil and air can prevent seeds from germinating. For recommendations tailored to your specific grass type and climate, consider consulting a local lawn care professional.