Common Questions We Are Often Asked about Hydroseed
Hydroseed has almost a mystical fascination – a legendary, unstoppable grass that is simply sprayed and grows as if by magic. Or so it seems, as we hear many frequently asked questions from customers about hydroseeding and what it can and cannot do. To set the record straight, here are some answers to the most common questions we are often asked about hydroseeding.
We can; however, best results are accomplished through a properly prepared seedbed of loose soil. If the seed has nowhere to take root, it will grow in the fiber mulch and fertilizer and ultimately dry up and die.
We can hydroseed until temperatures are consistently below 55°. Seed germination depends upon soil temperature and moisture. If it is too late in the season, the seed applied will begin growing in early spring.
We use cool season grass blends like bluegrass and perennial rye that are versatile for both sun and shade. We may customize deep-shade areas with chewings fescue grass seed or sunny, high-traffic areas with tall fescue because it has deeper roots.
Generally, hydroseed takes about 7 to 10 days to germinate. It is safe to walk on it (carefully!) 2 to 3 weeks after hydroseeding.
Hydroseeding has a significant amount of water soluble fertilizer in the mix – which means it gets used up quickly by the rapidly growing grass. You will want to fertilize your new lawn with starter fertilizer only in the three, six, and nine weeks following your hydroseeding application. Avoid fertilizers with weed killers in the first year until the lawn is established.
Hydroseed is non-toxic, however pets may get a tummy ache because of the fertilizer contained within the mulch. It’s best to keep pets off of newly seeded areas until the grass is established and the paper mulch is broken down.