It's finally spring in Ohio, and it's time to grow that perfect lawn! However, the idea of laying down new sod and skipping that entire waiting game seems like a good option. So what to do? Do you seed with the idea of growing the perfect lawn, or do you pay more to have the perfect lawn now? In this article you will be provided with a few helpful tips on what your options are, and what you need to do. 

• Seeding is the less expensive route if you are on a budget. It is easier to apply, less labor intensive, which is great for those who don’t have the time. Seeding your lawn allows your root system to develop in native soil, rather than introducing an established root system from another soil mix in. With sod there is always the chance that the root system will not grow into your soil, and end up perishing. However, seeding does take longer to grow and isn’t able to handle being walked on at first. Plus with seeding you may need to repeat the process in areas it doesn't come in.
   
• Sodding is the more expensive route (often 4 times more than seeding a lawn), but could be worth the price. It does take more labor, and is harder to apply. Sodding does grow quick, and can handle being walked on right away. The best part is that in one day, you can have a brand new green lawn. However, when sodding a new lawn there is a high chance of the grass not rooting and dying. Finally, new sod also requires a tremendous amount of water to help keep the sod from drying out and dying.

Some Tips about seeding

Generally the best time to seed a lawn is in fall (Late August/September). This is because the soil’s moisture is increasing while the temperature is cooling. This helps with root development, and is the time of year that weeds do not grow well in.

When it comes to fertilizing after you’ve seeded your lawn, you'll want to choose a fertilizer with higher phosphorus.  A fertilizer with a high phosphorus level will help your lawn establish a strong root system.  After fertilizing, keep your newly seeded area moist, watering 2-3 times daily, providing plenty of water.

Finally, no matter which way you go, it is important that you set up a strong fertilizing program for your new lawn. A comprehensive lawn care package can help keep your lawn growing all season, and provide the important nutrients it needs throughout the year to grow beautiful and strong.

Some Tips about sodding

This is a fast process, generally takes a few hours. The first step is to determine the type you need and then the amount needed for your particular lawn. It is important to know that you want the strips to be touching, just not overlapping. And of course watering is the most important thing you need to do after the process. This helps the sod from drying out and perishing.

More Spring Lawn Care Tips

Seeding or sodding is just one of the issues you may face when preparing for the lawn care season. That's why Weed Pro has put together one of the best spring lawn care guides in the industry. The best part is that it's yours absolutely free by clicking on the link below!

Shaun Kanary has been a part of the Green Industry for the past 15 years. As the Director of Marketing for Weed Pro Lawn Care, a Cleveland and Columbus Lawn Care Service Provider, Shaun is a regular contributor to the Weed Pro Blog, and other industry magazine and blogs.  Shaun on Google+     Shaun on LinkedIn     Shaun on Twitter