Autumn is is definitely here and it’s the best time to sow a new lawn.  Hopefully by now you have already sprayed off the area twice.  Once to knock off the existing weeds and a second spray to catch the next batch of germinating weeds or newly sprouted bits of Couch or the like.  Roundup or the new improved version Zero are ideal for this job. Even better is the new Glysophate 360 from Grosafe.  It’s an  NZ made product and much cheaper than either of the others.

Remove all the weeds and rake over lightly to ensure your new lawn will be level.

Apply a good lawn fertiliser and your chosen lawn seed and rake over again.  Make sure that you keep the soil moist on a daily basis.  If you are laying turf, pop your fertiliser on beforehand and rake in before laying turf on too.

Your lawn seed should germinate within 7-10 days.  Make sure that the surface is kept damp at all times.  After 10-12 weeks fertilise again.  Once your new lawn is established deep watering twice a week will encourage stronger root growth and carry the fertiliser to the root zone.  Deep watering may not be necessary if heavy rain occurs.  Early morning is the best time to water.  Late afternoon watering can lead to fungal disease as the grass stays damp overnight.