Top much top soil?

[Mill1174]

In an effort to really grow new grass vs simply overseed we put down about 0.5 to 1" of top soil with seed mixed in about 2 weeks ago. We are wondering now if with watering twice a day if the seed is having a hard time breaking through as we have experienced tons of sun with the regular watering and still not see eng new growth. Any suggestions?

 

[DirtMechanic]

In an effort to really grow new grass vs simply overseed we put down about 0.5 to 1" of top soil with seed mixed in about 2 weeks ago. We are wondering now if with watering twice a day if the seed is having a hard time breaking through as we have experienced tons of sun with the regular watering and still not see eng new growth. Any suggestions?

What temperatures have you experienced over that period? If they were low, it may just be slow.

 

[Mill1174]

What temperatures have you experienced over that period? If they were low, it may just be slow.

Been around 45ish at night and up to 70ish during the day.

 

[DrMike27]

I’d lean towards slow growth over you doing something wrong. Lower soil temps will considerably delay germination.

 

[Sheal]

Grass seed usually needs a minimum temperature of 54F/12C to germinate, so it will be slow to grow. If you have used seed that is more than a year old, then it's unlikely that most of it will germinate.

 

[Mill1174]

Good news is it's a brand new bag from Costco so should be good from that perspective, but suspect ground temps may be a little cooler than ideal. Even though the watering seems to make layer above the seed probably should continue watering it twice a day as it's been drying out pretty quickly with all the sun and lack of rain.

Grass seed usually needs a minimum temperature of 54F/12C to germinate, so it will be slow to grow. If you have used seed that is more than a year old, then it's unlikely that most of it will germinate.

 

[Sheal]

The depth of topsoil isn't a problem, the grass will still force it's way through. Carry on with the watering though until it's roots are well established.