What Is Hydroseeding?

Hydroseeding

Hydroseeding is a grass seed sowing process that is fast, efficient and economical. Although not producing instant effects as achieved with instant turf, the process is far more cost effective and delivers better grass than the conventional sowing of seed method does.

Hydroseeding begins by mixing recycled paper mulch (or cellulose fibre), seed, tackifiers, fertiliser and water in the tank of a hydro-mulching machine. Once mixed, the material is then pumped from the tank and sprayed onto the ground. The mix is referred to as slurry. Once it is applied to the soil, it enhances growth by providing an ideal environment for seed germination. (As always, the climate and local water availability continue to play an important part in assisting germination speed).

What Can you do to Prepare for Hydroseeding?

We recommend the following steps for preparation:

  • Remove all weed from the area to be seeded.
  • If area/soil has clay we recommend the application of gypsum typically at 2kg p/sq mtr.
  • Rotary hoe gypsum in.
  • If soil is to be added, contact your local garden supplier and source a lawn blend soil that will cover the area to a depth of approximately 100mm.
  • In cases where additional soil or gypsum is not needed we recommend to rotary hoe the area to 100mm depth. Then Level and lightly roll hoed area.

Important note! If you plan to install a sprinkler system, we recommend that you install the pipe work first before finalising the above steps, aligning the sprinklers to the desired height and ensuring that all pipe work is well below rotary hoe depth.

Results?

Hydroseeding will produce excellent results every time, especially if the area is well prepared and cared for. With the right preparation and regular application of water to the hydroseeded area, an excellent coverage of high quality and highly resilient grass will be achieved in just four to six weeks.

Care And Maintenance Recommendations For Your New Hydroseed Lawn

  • Keep the newly seeded area moist. The first month after seeding is critical in the establishment of your new lawn. Once established, watering frequency of your lawn can be decreased to promote a more drought tolerant lawn.
  • The time of year will determine how quickly your lawn grows. Generally the lawn will be ready for its first mow 4-6 weeks after germination.
  • Be sure to take care when you set out to mow your new lawn. We recommend that you mow to a height no lower than 25mm – at or any lower than this may damage your new turf and could also encourage weed invasion. Just a slight shave off the top of the grass on a weekly basis will produce the best results during high growth periods.
  • Never leave grass clippings on the lawn to rot. A catcher on your mower is highly recommended.

Fertilising your new lawn is recommended after 6-8 weeks. Consult your local nursery as to fertilisers suitable for your area and time of year. “Weed and Feeding” is not recommended until the grass is at least six months old.