Lawn Restoration Questions/Answers
If you decide to restore your lawn, the process is listed below:
First, the problem is accessed. If your lawn is filled with weeds it may be suggested to eliminate all vegetation first. If we do this the lawn will have to sit for 10-14 days before the real work begins.
Next, a tractor is brought in with a rototiller that will till down 6-10 inches to bring the lawn back to all black dirt. The yard will then be re-leveled and all rocks, roots, and debris that may have been tilled up, will be removed and disposed of.
Finally, the soil will be pulverized, and new seed will be sewn into the ground. At this point your lawn has been restored and can be left to grow…with a little help from you along the way.
To help increase your rate of success it is highly recommended to cover your lawn with erosion blanket to hold the seed in place during heavy rain, help retain moisture for faster seed germination and eliminate birds from eating the seed.
Common questions before restoring:
Why roto-till my yard?
Over the years the lawn can become compacted and the nutrients stripped off the top causing the roots to be growing at the surface rather than as deep as they should be. Rototilling will loosen up the ground and mix the nutrients back into the soil for deeper root growth.
My yard was bumpy before and the water didn’t drain correctly…
In the restoration process all drainage issues will be addressed. High areas will be cut down and low areas will be filled to allow water to flow correctly off your lawn and eliminating the unevenness.
How is the grass seed planted?
New grass seed is sewn using a tractor that creates a groove in the soil, drops seed and covers it. This improves the germination process as the seed is planted directly in the ground. It helps hold moisture and the seed is able to anchor to the ground much faster.
Why seed over sod?
Sod is grown in completely different conditions than what your lawn conditions are (or your neighbors for that matter) then cut off at the roots to be laid in your yard. The new grass does not always adapt well to the soil in a new environment inhibiting the growth potential of its roots, sometimes never growing as deep as they should. With seed the grass adapts to your soil conditions from germination to a full, lush, healthy lawn and will thrive.
How long will it take for my new seed to grow?
Your grass, with proper watering and care as directed, will sprout in 10-14 days and will need its first cutting at approximately 60 days.
Why would I put down erosion blanket?
The erosion blanket helps hold moisture allowing you to water less. It also prevents erosion and seeds being washed away as well as preventing birds from eating the seeds. In turn, your lawn grows fuller and faster.
What are my responsibilities after Tomasello’s restores my lawn?
You will need to keep the lawn watered and start a weed/fertilizing program in roughly 4-6 weeks. See our website for more detailed instructions.
