There are several ways to establish a lawn. Hand seeding is probably the most common, with sod installation close behind. These are both good methods, but they do have their drawbacks. Hydroseeding a lawn isn't a new process, but it's newer than hand seeding and installing sod. If you're ready to establish a lawn in your yard, consider whether hydroseeding might be the best application process for your job.
What is Hydroseeding?
Hydroseeding is one method for establishing a lawn. With this method, contractors mix a slurry of seed, mulch, fertilizer, and a tackifier, which bonds the seeds to the ground. They use a sprayer to spread this mix over the ground in a uniform layer.
There are Different Types of Hydroseeding Mulch
The mulch used with hydroseeding retains moisture and keeps the seeds warm. A papery mulch is commonly used. Other common mulch additives include wood fiber, straw, and cotton fiber. It's also possible to choose an erosion control mulch, which is useful for hillsides. You may make a request that a certain mulch is used, but typically your contractor will choose based on the job and local availability.
Hydroseeding can be Better than Dry Seeding
While dry seeding or hand seeding might be cheaper for small areas, hydroseeding has several advantages for large areas. For one, the spraying process allows contractors to cover wider areas more quickly. The seeds germinate more quickly partially because there's better seed to soil contact. Likewise, the mulch helps retain the moisture better.
Hydroseeding can be Better than Installing Sod
Sod is a good choice for establishing a lawn, but hydroseeding has some advantages here, too. First, hydroseeding tends to be more budget-friendly. What's more, because the mulch helps the surface retain moisture, you have to water a hydroseeded area less than one with sod. Finally, you're using your own soil rather than one that's been transplanted. This means there's no period of shock like there sometimes is with sod.
A Hydroseeded Lawn Takes a Little Care
Once your lawn has been hydroseeded, it requires just a little care to get it to take root. According to the Landscaping Network, you must keep the seeds evenly moist for two months. During that time, you should minimize foot traffic on the sprouting lawn. However, you can mow for the first time after one month.
Any lawn inhibits erosion, making it preferable to bare soil. Talk to your local lawn care specialists, such as Reed Hydromulch, about having your yard hydroseeded.
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