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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.

Morning and late afternoon are the best times for watering new grass seed. The seed gets a healthy balance of water and sunlight, and the excess water evaporates. If you water the grass long after the sun goes down, the air is too cold, and there's no sun to make excess water evaporate. This keeps the grass damp for too long, increasing the chances of over-watering.

Choosing between sod and seed depends on your budget, timeline, and maintenance preferences.

Sod:

• Pros: Provides an instant, lush lawn and immediate curb appeal. It's more resistant to weeds and erosion, can be installed any time during the growing season, and offers a consistent appearance.

• Cons: Has a higher upfront cost, typically $0.90 to $1.80 more per square foot than seed. It offers fewer grass varieties and must be installed immediately upon delivery.

Seed:

• Pros: Less expensive upfront, making it a budget-friendly option. It offers a wider variety of grass types and is easier for a DIY installation.

• Cons: Takes much longer to establish, potentially up to two years for a full lawn. It requires more maintenance, including regular weed control, and is more difficult to cultivate.

Ultimately, if you want a beautiful lawn quickly and have a larger budget, sod is an excellent choice. If you are patient, want to save money, and prefer a wider selection of grass types, seeding may be the better option.

Orchard grass seeds can spread quite easily, traveling with the wind as well as birds and animals. Common grass seed packets, especially in the popular tall fescue variety, may contain the occasional orchard grass seed by accident. Always purchase high-quality turf grass seed without "other crop seeds" mixed in.